After eating, we filled the sanctuary and the fun continued. A contraption (a leaf blower with a paint roller sticking out the end) sent toilet paper flying over the crowd. Another creative invention shot free t-shirts to the hands raised in the air. Every face exhibited a smile. All generations came together to celebrate with our God.
The night continued with song, games, funny acts and ended with a word from our associate pastor. Everyone bowed their heads and completed the night in prayer, followed by a couple songs. We all exited with a little bounce in our steps, although the younger ones were in meltdown mode, and our hearts full of joy. All generations came together and shared an evening of fun with our God.
That night, every head hit the pillow in thanks for such a wonderful church family. Our church family is very important to us and when we gather, our joy supersedes all of worries, sadness, tough times and troubles. We walk into a comforting, loving and caring family. We can be ourselves without fear of judgment.
"Feelings of worth can flourish only in an atmosphere where individual differences are appreciated, mistakes are tolerated, communication is open, and rules are flexible -- the kind of atmosphere that is found in a nurturing family." ~Virginia Satir~
"Praise the LORD.
Praise God in his sanctuary;
praise him in his mighty heavens.
praise him in his mighty heavens.
Let everything that has breath praise the LORD.
Praise the LORD." (Psalm 150:1; 6)
"May the God who gives endurance and encouragement give you the same attitude of mind toward each other that Christ Jesus had, so that with one mind and one voice you may glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Accept one another, then, just as Christ accepted you, in order to bring praise to God." (Romans 15:5-7)
God smiled as each hand raised, each voice shouted and each body gave full praise to Him that night. As two or more gather in His name, there He will be. Becoming part of a church family is so important. The love, guidance, comfort and joy received helps to keep your focus on Him. He loves to hear praises for all His good work. He builds up individuals to lead believers and guide them on their journey. The church staff and leaders are mere vessels who wake up every day ready to be used for His Glory.
Be God's hands and feet and reach out to those without a church family. Would you walk past a starving child on the street and not offer up your lunch? NO! So, why walk past a spiritually starved Child of God and not share the Gospel with them? Why not invite them to join your family and feel the love of Christ?
God loves to see His family have fun in His name. I am sad to say that I did not invite others to join our family that night. They missed out on lots of fun, lots of love given all in His name because I failed to invite them. Take that step in faith and invite others to experience Truth. If you are the one being invited, take that step in faith and go hear about Him. Accept Him into your life and join a group of believers to get to know more about our Creator. He is the Way, Truth and Life.
God, thank you for another day. Thank You for my church family. I feel so accepted, loved and comforted when around them. Consume our church and keep each member focused on spreading Truth. Keep us focused on You and where You lead us. Thank You for each leader, each servant and each friend in our church who make it possible to learn more about You. I pray for each leader and member to stay strong and follow You each step they take. I love You.
Keep praying harder than the devil can work.
Sheree Craig
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