Over the weekend I had the privilege of joining up with 2000 or so owners of NewSpring Church from all over the state as we converged on the main campus in Anderson, SC for an event called Launch.
Our pastor shared the history of NewSpring as well as vision for the future. The very first thing he wanted us to understand was the faithfulness of God. He told us how God gave him the vision to start NewSpring in 1996. He showed us a picture of the living room where 15 people began to meet in 1999. As he shared the details of the uncertainty and fears that sometimes plagued him and the leadership, God was always faithful.
The statistics that amaze me the most are the growth. From those 15 original people God has done miraculous things. On Sunday, August 11, 2002, 506 people were at church at NewSpring. On successive Sundays the numbers were 970, 1096, 1247, 1505, 1548 and 1600. In six weeks the church tripled in size with no advertising, no social media, and no website to speak of. This was purely a God thing!
And God is still doing the miraculous. We now have eight campuses with plans for more. Why? Because God is bringing people who are far from Him and setting them free through faith in Jesus. And when they meet Jesus they begin to take their next steps. They get baptized, they join small groups, they serve others as volunteers, some eventually end up on staff.
The campus I attend is 50 miles from the home church in a community with a church on just about every block. Many church people don't like us and the way we do things, yet we have seen 910 people confess "Jesus is Lord" in the 15-16 months we have been here. God is faithful! He WILL do what only He can do when we submit to His leadership!
Showing posts with label NewSpring Church. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NewSpring Church. Show all posts
Monday, May 20, 2013
Tuesday, May 14, 2013
Delayed Obedience Is Disobedience
Sometimes I want to just kick myself for when it is so hard for me to be obedient to God. It always leads to sorrow and regret!
About nine years ago I believed God was going to move me away from my hometown. I stopped seeing the guy I was dating, whom I knew was not God's best for me for a lot of reasons. But then I didn't move. I was sure, at first, that God was leading me away from my church of 20+ years but rather than leave the people I loved so much, I went on staff as an employee of the church.
For two years things were great. The ministry I was serving was growing. The people I served loved me and I loved them and my supervisor was extremely pleased with everything. Then, over a two week period, things began to fall apart. And it was not pretty. I left that church hurt, disillusioned, angry, blaming myself for things I could not control.
Knowing for some time that God wanted me to move, I had visited some surrounding churches just to check them out. Others I watched on TV. But I kept thinking, nope not it. As I allowed God to lead me, I quickly found the church He had been wanting to get me into for years.
It was a church 50 miles from home that I had no knowledge of except I'd heard it was for college kids. When I turned into the driveway, God spoke to my heart to say this is it. So I knew before I ever walked in the door, before I ever heard the preacher preach, before I ever knew the core values, NewSpring was to be my new church home. As I was greeted at my car and walked into the church, as I heard the message and watched the videos, as I participated in musical worship, I was blown away. Within 10 days I was a member and have never regretted a minute of it except that I didn't listen when God first tried to get me out of my comfort zone.
God had been prodding me with, "I'm doing things you're never going to see if you don't leave!" And that was truth directly from God. I have seen my son, grandson, and granddaughter all surrender their lives to Jesus. I have seen my daughter in law confess her addiction to alcohol, for the first time, to Care Room volunteers and seek the help she needed. I have seen 1000s more make the same kinds of decisions.
When I started there was one campus with plans for another (only 30 miles from my home). Now, in just five years, there are 8 campuses across our state with plans for more. We have gone from an average weekly attendance of around 8,000 to almost 25,000. There is now a campus in my community only a few miles from home. In 2013 at the local campus I now attend, we have seen 343 salvations and 292 public professions of faith through baptism. It just blows me away! I read and hear all sorts of things about the demise of the church, but the Church is still the Bride of Christ and His means to reach the world.
Because my previous disobedience ended so badly, I have tried hard to listen for God's direction. And God has chosen to honor me personally in ways I never would have believed when I first walked in the doors of NewSpring. I am so humbled that this grandma would be chosen to do and see the things God has allowed me to do and see. His grace is so marvelous. Obedience is so joyful. If God never, ever blesses me with anything else, He has done enough.
About nine years ago I believed God was going to move me away from my hometown. I stopped seeing the guy I was dating, whom I knew was not God's best for me for a lot of reasons. But then I didn't move. I was sure, at first, that God was leading me away from my church of 20+ years but rather than leave the people I loved so much, I went on staff as an employee of the church.
For two years things were great. The ministry I was serving was growing. The people I served loved me and I loved them and my supervisor was extremely pleased with everything. Then, over a two week period, things began to fall apart. And it was not pretty. I left that church hurt, disillusioned, angry, blaming myself for things I could not control.
Knowing for some time that God wanted me to move, I had visited some surrounding churches just to check them out. Others I watched on TV. But I kept thinking, nope not it. As I allowed God to lead me, I quickly found the church He had been wanting to get me into for years.
It was a church 50 miles from home that I had no knowledge of except I'd heard it was for college kids. When I turned into the driveway, God spoke to my heart to say this is it. So I knew before I ever walked in the door, before I ever heard the preacher preach, before I ever knew the core values, NewSpring was to be my new church home. As I was greeted at my car and walked into the church, as I heard the message and watched the videos, as I participated in musical worship, I was blown away. Within 10 days I was a member and have never regretted a minute of it except that I didn't listen when God first tried to get me out of my comfort zone.
God had been prodding me with, "I'm doing things you're never going to see if you don't leave!" And that was truth directly from God. I have seen my son, grandson, and granddaughter all surrender their lives to Jesus. I have seen my daughter in law confess her addiction to alcohol, for the first time, to Care Room volunteers and seek the help she needed. I have seen 1000s more make the same kinds of decisions.
When I started there was one campus with plans for another (only 30 miles from my home). Now, in just five years, there are 8 campuses across our state with plans for more. We have gone from an average weekly attendance of around 8,000 to almost 25,000. There is now a campus in my community only a few miles from home. In 2013 at the local campus I now attend, we have seen 343 salvations and 292 public professions of faith through baptism. It just blows me away! I read and hear all sorts of things about the demise of the church, but the Church is still the Bride of Christ and His means to reach the world.
Because my previous disobedience ended so badly, I have tried hard to listen for God's direction. And God has chosen to honor me personally in ways I never would have believed when I first walked in the doors of NewSpring. I am so humbled that this grandma would be chosen to do and see the things God has allowed me to do and see. His grace is so marvelous. Obedience is so joyful. If God never, ever blesses me with anything else, He has done enough.
Monday, April 22, 2013
I Love My Church
I am so glad God brought me to NewSpring Church in 2008. God is doing amazing things and I get to be part of it. I think that is the most amazing part!! King David said in Psalm 8, "...what is man that You are mindful of him..." and I would say who am I that You have blessed me with such favor?
As my Father, God wants to give me good things! One of the very good things He has given me is NewSpring Church. I call it "my" church because it is the one I attend but this church, like THE Church - with a capital C - of course is His. It was established by Jesus when He gave His life for sinners and rose from the dead to conquer sin and death and then ascended to the right hand of the Father to intercede for me, for us.
What I love so much about NewSpring is no one cares how you dress or wear your hair. No one cares about your age or your race or your past. No one gets upset when lost people act like lost people. We want the addicts and sexually impure and the gossips and the liars and the drunkards because everyone DOES care that you have a personal relationship with Jesus. Jesus went after the lost, the outcasts of society, those shunned by the religious leaders as unclean and unworthy. Since Jesus did, we do too.
People all over South Carolina, and even the world, are submitting their lives to Jesus through the teaching and ministry of NewSpring. We have seen people from just about every scenario of sin you can imagine be set free from the chains of bondage that have held them captive. Not only are they meeting Jesus, they are being baptized and getting into small groups and giving money and serving others through volunteering.
I am so encouraged when I read stories of this life change in people I don't know. I am encouraged when I see people I do know experience life change. I am encouraged when my own life is changed as my relationship with Jesus grows and expands. God is so good to me that I overflow with joy!
As my Father, God wants to give me good things! One of the very good things He has given me is NewSpring Church. I call it "my" church because it is the one I attend but this church, like THE Church - with a capital C - of course is His. It was established by Jesus when He gave His life for sinners and rose from the dead to conquer sin and death and then ascended to the right hand of the Father to intercede for me, for us.
What I love so much about NewSpring is no one cares how you dress or wear your hair. No one cares about your age or your race or your past. No one gets upset when lost people act like lost people. We want the addicts and sexually impure and the gossips and the liars and the drunkards because everyone DOES care that you have a personal relationship with Jesus. Jesus went after the lost, the outcasts of society, those shunned by the religious leaders as unclean and unworthy. Since Jesus did, we do too.
People all over South Carolina, and even the world, are submitting their lives to Jesus through the teaching and ministry of NewSpring. We have seen people from just about every scenario of sin you can imagine be set free from the chains of bondage that have held them captive. Not only are they meeting Jesus, they are being baptized and getting into small groups and giving money and serving others through volunteering.
I am so encouraged when I read stories of this life change in people I don't know. I am encouraged when I see people I do know experience life change. I am encouraged when my own life is changed as my relationship with Jesus grows and expands. God is so good to me that I overflow with joy!
Wednesday, September 19, 2012
FUSE
FUSE is the student ministry of NewSpring Church and it is starting in Spartanburg next week. I am so excited because my grandson is so excited.
Part of my excitement is not driving the 100+ mile round trip every Wednesday to take him to Greenville for the evening. However, I will miss the time we have spent together on the ride as we talk about life and God and family and all the things a 13 year old talks about. But he has encouraged me to volunteer with FUSE in Spartanburg. That was not an easy decision for many reasons but I do believe God has shown me my place with these students.
Aside from that, Nate is so ready to have FUSE at "home". He told me just a couple of weeks ago that it's just not the same anymore I Greenville. He no longer serves along side the guys in his small group. He doesn't go to school with them. He can't go to Sunday lunch with them. And he wasn't with them at The Gauntlet this summer. He's excited about doing life at FUSE with the guys and gals he serves with on Sunday. And loving the opportunity of inviting his friends from school.
The kids love FUSE. They get sound biblical teaching and have great music from the band. In addition they have a great time hanging out and playing video games and just being kids. The kids know they can invite their friends and most of them will want to come back again and some of them will eventually meet Jesus head on and have their lives changed forever.
Part of my excitement is not driving the 100+ mile round trip every Wednesday to take him to Greenville for the evening. However, I will miss the time we have spent together on the ride as we talk about life and God and family and all the things a 13 year old talks about. But he has encouraged me to volunteer with FUSE in Spartanburg. That was not an easy decision for many reasons but I do believe God has shown me my place with these students.
Aside from that, Nate is so ready to have FUSE at "home". He told me just a couple of weeks ago that it's just not the same anymore I Greenville. He no longer serves along side the guys in his small group. He doesn't go to school with them. He can't go to Sunday lunch with them. And he wasn't with them at The Gauntlet this summer. He's excited about doing life at FUSE with the guys and gals he serves with on Sunday. And loving the opportunity of inviting his friends from school.
The kids love FUSE. They get sound biblical teaching and have great music from the band. In addition they have a great time hanging out and playing video games and just being kids. The kids know they can invite their friends and most of them will want to come back again and some of them will eventually meet Jesus head on and have their lives changed forever.
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
He Loved Them to the End
John 13:1 "Now before the Feast of the Passover, when Jesus knew that His hour had come to depart out of this world, having loved His own who were in the world, He loved them to the end." (ESV)
Jesus loved His ragtag bunch of disciples. Outspoken, impulsive Peter who would deny Him. James and John who would ask for higher positions of authority than their counterparts. Thomas who would doubt Jesus' resurrection. And Judas. Judas who was a thief in charge of the money bag. Judas who would betray Him to those who would kill Him.
And Jesus loved them. He taught them and encouraged them and washed their feet. We probably dont't think much about the foot washing but it was a dirty job that was reserved for the lowest of the low of the foreign slaves. And then Jesus loved them all the way to the cross.
Last Sunday Pastor Perry preached a sermon called "Going for the Big ASK" where he talked to us about asking THEM...our friends and family...to church this Sunday as we have "salvation Sunday". But he also told us we should always ask HIM...God...to save those we invite.
We don't berate those we care about for their lifestyle or for their poor choices. Jesus didn't. He washed their feet. He loved them to the end. So then we never give up on our family and friends. We never stop inviting. We never stop praying for God to save them. We never stop looking for opportunities to speak Jesus into their lives. We love THEM to the end as we continually ask HIM to save them.
Jesus loved His ragtag bunch of disciples. Outspoken, impulsive Peter who would deny Him. James and John who would ask for higher positions of authority than their counterparts. Thomas who would doubt Jesus' resurrection. And Judas. Judas who was a thief in charge of the money bag. Judas who would betray Him to those who would kill Him.
And Jesus loved them. He taught them and encouraged them and washed their feet. We probably dont't think much about the foot washing but it was a dirty job that was reserved for the lowest of the low of the foreign slaves. And then Jesus loved them all the way to the cross.
Last Sunday Pastor Perry preached a sermon called "Going for the Big ASK" where he talked to us about asking THEM...our friends and family...to church this Sunday as we have "salvation Sunday". But he also told us we should always ask HIM...God...to save those we invite.
We don't berate those we care about for their lifestyle or for their poor choices. Jesus didn't. He washed their feet. He loved them to the end. So then we never give up on our family and friends. We never stop inviting. We never stop praying for God to save them. We never stop looking for opportunities to speak Jesus into their lives. We love THEM to the end as we continually ask HIM to save them.
Friday, August 17, 2012
The Days Are Evil
Some of the people I am friends with on Facebook (who are people I actually know) are convinced that our President is evil. They post all sorts of "Christian" political ads against Mr. Obama and for Mr. Romney, as if our President controls the destiny of America. Nothing wrong with being political, it just needs to have the proper perspective. Only Jesus knows and controls the future - for me personally and for this country. Only Jesus can make the heart changes that are needed in individuals, whether great or small in influence, to cause people to do the "right thing".
Paul spoke of the days in which he lived and characterized them as evil. "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)
Evil has been around since Adam and Eve turned their backs on God to do what they wanted rather than what God wanted. The first murder happened between their sons, Cain and Abel. (Genesis 3-7) It doesn't matter what form the evil takes the only answer is always Jesus.
But then those verses above make me have to ask, how do I make the best use of my time? I certainly don't think it is in vilifying the President or in promoting his opponent. I do need to pray for them and I need to ask God for wisdom in casting my ballot. But I believe I am to be more concerned with those I know personally who don't know Jesus and living my life in such a way that Jesus if glorified.
At NewSpring my Pastor often says we care about the numbers because every number has a name and every name has a story and every story matters to God. I really like that. The thing is some (and maybe it's just 1) of those numbers/names/stories is someone Jesus wants me to talk to or invite to church or take to lunch, making good use of my time.
Paul spoke of the days in which he lived and characterized them as evil. "Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time, because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is." Ephesians 5:15-17 (ESV)
Evil has been around since Adam and Eve turned their backs on God to do what they wanted rather than what God wanted. The first murder happened between their sons, Cain and Abel. (Genesis 3-7) It doesn't matter what form the evil takes the only answer is always Jesus.
But then those verses above make me have to ask, how do I make the best use of my time? I certainly don't think it is in vilifying the President or in promoting his opponent. I do need to pray for them and I need to ask God for wisdom in casting my ballot. But I believe I am to be more concerned with those I know personally who don't know Jesus and living my life in such a way that Jesus if glorified.
At NewSpring my Pastor often says we care about the numbers because every number has a name and every name has a story and every story matters to God. I really like that. The thing is some (and maybe it's just 1) of those numbers/names/stories is someone Jesus wants me to talk to or invite to church or take to lunch, making good use of my time.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
Jealousy
God tells us He is a jealous God. His jealousy is rooted in love for His children because He knows if we stray we will eventually experience heartache.
Human jealousy can be an evil thing. It thinks the worst about a person's actions and it attempts either to control or destroy the object of one's jealousy. Proverbs 6:34 says, "For jealousy makes a man furious, and he will not spare when he takes revenge." (ESV) Revenge is definitely NOT rooted in love.
The most unfortunate type of jealousy is that found among Christ followers who cannot celebrate a move of God in a particular body of believers. The jealous want to question or denounce or ridicule the things that might be happening. They scoff and criticize the pastor or the church but what they are really doing is scoffing and criticizing God.
When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, the Pharisees said, "What do we do now?" they asked. "This man keeps on doing things, creating God-signs. If we let him go on, pretty soon everyone will be believing in him and the Romans will come and remove what little power and privilege we still have." John 11:47-48 (MSG)
The Pharisees were the church leaders of their day. They couldn't celebrate the great things God was doing in their midst because they were concerned about THEIR position, THEIR power, THEIR privilege.
Ultimately jealousy is selfishness and wishing I could have what someone else has. Everyone probably battles that demon to some degree - someone gets the job you hoped to have or gets recognition for a joint project and you don't or goes on nice vacations or has a better house or car or kids or whatever.
In churches people are jealous of the attendance numbers or the salvation numbers or the church's expansions or the pastor's speaking opportunities. But in the church, as in my life, God is in control and it is HIS plan that is at work.
"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the deires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 (ESV) Whether an individul or a church, we must keep walking with Jesus, being faithful to do all He asks, celebrating everything He does no matter how small and God will do what only God can do.
Human jealousy can be an evil thing. It thinks the worst about a person's actions and it attempts either to control or destroy the object of one's jealousy. Proverbs 6:34 says, "For jealousy makes a man furious, and he will not spare when he takes revenge." (ESV) Revenge is definitely NOT rooted in love.
The most unfortunate type of jealousy is that found among Christ followers who cannot celebrate a move of God in a particular body of believers. The jealous want to question or denounce or ridicule the things that might be happening. They scoff and criticize the pastor or the church but what they are really doing is scoffing and criticizing God.
When Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead, the Pharisees said, "What do we do now?" they asked. "This man keeps on doing things, creating God-signs. If we let him go on, pretty soon everyone will be believing in him and the Romans will come and remove what little power and privilege we still have." John 11:47-48 (MSG)
The Pharisees were the church leaders of their day. They couldn't celebrate the great things God was doing in their midst because they were concerned about THEIR position, THEIR power, THEIR privilege.
Ultimately jealousy is selfishness and wishing I could have what someone else has. Everyone probably battles that demon to some degree - someone gets the job you hoped to have or gets recognition for a joint project and you don't or goes on nice vacations or has a better house or car or kids or whatever.
In churches people are jealous of the attendance numbers or the salvation numbers or the church's expansions or the pastor's speaking opportunities. But in the church, as in my life, God is in control and it is HIS plan that is at work.
"Delight yourself in the Lord, and He will give you the deires of your heart." Psalm 37:4 (ESV) Whether an individul or a church, we must keep walking with Jesus, being faithful to do all He asks, celebrating everything He does no matter how small and God will do what only God can do.
Friday, August 10, 2012
Next Steps
The sheep hear [the shepherd's] voice, and he calls his own sheep by name and leads them out. I [Jesus] am the good shepherd, I know my own and my own know me. My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me. John 10:3,14,27
At NewSpring we talk a lot about next steps for our church as a body and for each individual person. Here in John 10, Jesus sets the stage for that.
In these verses the steps are hear, know, and follow.
Hearing Jesus brings conviction to my heart that I am a sinner, separated from God and in desperate need of the grace of God for salvation through Jesus Christ alone. Acts 4:12
Getting to know Jesus begins by reading my Bible, getting involved in a small group, and keeping a prayer journal.
Following Jesus begins by being baptized by immersion very soon after salvation, serving in my local church and and returning a tenth of my income to my local church.
The steps of hearing, knowing and following are repeated over and over through out my life as my relationship with Jesus grows and changes. There is always something new I need to hear or something old I need to hear again. There is always more to know about Jesus as I experience His work in my life. There is always another next step, whether small or large, in following Jesus.
I am so grateful that Jesus led me to NewSpring where I am always encouraged to take my next step.
At NewSpring we talk a lot about next steps for our church as a body and for each individual person. Here in John 10, Jesus sets the stage for that.
In these verses the steps are hear, know, and follow.
Hearing Jesus brings conviction to my heart that I am a sinner, separated from God and in desperate need of the grace of God for salvation through Jesus Christ alone. Acts 4:12
Getting to know Jesus begins by reading my Bible, getting involved in a small group, and keeping a prayer journal.
Following Jesus begins by being baptized by immersion very soon after salvation, serving in my local church and and returning a tenth of my income to my local church.
The steps of hearing, knowing and following are repeated over and over through out my life as my relationship with Jesus grows and changes. There is always something new I need to hear or something old I need to hear again. There is always more to know about Jesus as I experience His work in my life. There is always another next step, whether small or large, in following Jesus.
I am so grateful that Jesus led me to NewSpring where I am always encouraged to take my next step.
Saturday, May 19, 2012
Sacrifice
My pastor, Perry Noble, has been having vision events around the state this week to tell us what God's plans are for the future of NewSpring Church in reaching the lost of SC with the gospel of Jesus Christ.
I have not actually heard this vision yet because he is coming to my location tonight. But I have heard through social media that two new campuses have been announced with one pastor already in place. These two, along with three new campuses this year including the Spartanburg Campus that I attend, will bring our total campuses to 10.
All of this costs money - a lot of money - so I have been thinking about how God would have me support this work and whether I am I willing to sacrifice something if necessary to give what God would have me give. One of the expressions Perry uses is "if it's God's will, then it's God's bill" meaning God will supply from His great riches all that is needed to support what He asks us to do. But He funnels those riches to people and then asks us to give.
Ah, but I'm not rich! Based on America, maybe not. Based on the rest of the world, I am infinitely rich. The problem is, I'm just not used to having to sacrifice anything. Tithing and giving are in my budget so it's no sacrifice; the money is allocated and I give it each month. But if God asks me to sacrifice something, would I be willing to do it?
I don't have a smart phone with a data plan. I don't have cable or satellite TV. I don't have magazine subscriptions I can cancel. So those kinds of sacrifices are not possible. I really do live a pretty simple life on a pretty small budget. But if I had them, and God asked me to, would I give them up to advance His kingdom?
As I have been seeking God on this, a budget item came to mind that I could reallocate to "Take the Land". I have already said OK to God about that. This reallocation would cause a small lifestyle change for me so maybe that is sacrifice on my part. It just seems so simple and I take such joy in giving the money that I don't see it as sacrifice. What a privilege to be part of what God is doing here!
I have not actually heard this vision yet because he is coming to my location tonight. But I have heard through social media that two new campuses have been announced with one pastor already in place. These two, along with three new campuses this year including the Spartanburg Campus that I attend, will bring our total campuses to 10.
All of this costs money - a lot of money - so I have been thinking about how God would have me support this work and whether I am I willing to sacrifice something if necessary to give what God would have me give. One of the expressions Perry uses is "if it's God's will, then it's God's bill" meaning God will supply from His great riches all that is needed to support what He asks us to do. But He funnels those riches to people and then asks us to give.
Ah, but I'm not rich! Based on America, maybe not. Based on the rest of the world, I am infinitely rich. The problem is, I'm just not used to having to sacrifice anything. Tithing and giving are in my budget so it's no sacrifice; the money is allocated and I give it each month. But if God asks me to sacrifice something, would I be willing to do it?
I don't have a smart phone with a data plan. I don't have cable or satellite TV. I don't have magazine subscriptions I can cancel. So those kinds of sacrifices are not possible. I really do live a pretty simple life on a pretty small budget. But if I had them, and God asked me to, would I give them up to advance His kingdom?
As I have been seeking God on this, a budget item came to mind that I could reallocate to "Take the Land". I have already said OK to God about that. This reallocation would cause a small lifestyle change for me so maybe that is sacrifice on my part. It just seems so simple and I take such joy in giving the money that I don't see it as sacrifice. What a privilege to be part of what God is doing here!
Monday, September 26, 2011
Amazing Day
Yesterday, Sunday, September 25,2011, was an amazing day at NewSpring. As we wrapped up the Revelation series, Perry called people go public with their faith in Christ by being baptized by immersion after salvation.
Perry told us how he was baptized twice, once as an 8 year old and again as a teenager, because he'd prayed a prayer in church as a 5 year old and had been told he was saved. When he was about 19, he actually met Jesus and asked Him to take over his life and so he was baptized a third time.
At the end of the service, people were asked to take their next step of baptism if that was what God was leading them to do. In Greenville 253 people were baptized. All campuses together saw 1442 people get dunked after they answered the question, "Who is your Lord and Savior?" with "Jesus Christ".
I am really in awe of such a gracious and loving God who would stir the hearts of so many people to get their relationship with Jesus in line with His teaching. Even more amazing to me is that He lets me be part of what HE is doing! Thank You, thank You, thank You!
Perry told us how he was baptized twice, once as an 8 year old and again as a teenager, because he'd prayed a prayer in church as a 5 year old and had been told he was saved. When he was about 19, he actually met Jesus and asked Him to take over his life and so he was baptized a third time.
At the end of the service, people were asked to take their next step of baptism if that was what God was leading them to do. In Greenville 253 people were baptized. All campuses together saw 1442 people get dunked after they answered the question, "Who is your Lord and Savior?" with "Jesus Christ".
I am really in awe of such a gracious and loving God who would stir the hearts of so many people to get their relationship with Jesus in line with His teaching. Even more amazing to me is that He lets me be part of what HE is doing! Thank You, thank You, thank You!
Monday, September 19, 2011
Celebrate
Yesterday at NewSpring, Perry spent some time helping us celebrate what God has done over the past year in and through NewSpring Church. Some of the statistics are amazing. But of course it has nothing to do with us and everything to do with God. Although celebrating the past is good, anticipating what God will do in the future is just, or maybe more, important.
This morning I began to think about Jesus and how and why He chooses people and/or churches to bless. We know that He chose Judas to be one of His twelve closest companions and that Judas was in charge of the money for the group. But we also know that Jesus knew that Judas was a thief and that Judas would betray Him. But still Jesus chose him.
Jesus chose Simon Peter who would declare boldly "You are the Christ!" and "Even if I must die with You, I will not deny You!" But Peter did deny Him, just as Jesus said he would. Peter was hot-headed and impulsive but Jesus chose him anyway.
The disciples had their flaws. Thomas the doubter. Nathaniel the skeptic. James and John the glory seekers. Yet Jesus chose them. Jesus knows that we are flawed by sin but if we allow Him to work in our hearts and lives, we can be completely new creations.
There are many people who think THEY have to clean themselves up; they have to get their act together before they can come to Jesus. And what is even worse is people who profess Christ who look at someone and think he/she is not redeemable so we don't even attempt to introduce them to Jesus. We don't want their messy lives to make a mess of our pretty churches.
Maybe that is one of the reasons Jesus is blessing NewSpring Church. We welcome those with messy lives; those who live like non-Christians because they don't have a clue about who Christ is. But they come to NewSpring and hear the gospel and Jesus transforms their lives. HE cleans them up. HE helps them get their act together. Just as He did for me and countless numbers of others through out history. Example: our opening song yesterday was "Glory Train" by Ozzie Osborne. A guy attending in Charleston said he came with all sorts of walls up. Walked in and heard Glory Train and the walls came down. After hearing the gospel preached, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ who performed the miracle of raising this man from the dead - along with 79 others yesterday at NewSpring.
So the celebration is not about NewSpring but about Jesus and life change. People who were dead and are now alive. And our anticipation is that Jesus will continue to raise people to new life until He returns.
This morning I began to think about Jesus and how and why He chooses people and/or churches to bless. We know that He chose Judas to be one of His twelve closest companions and that Judas was in charge of the money for the group. But we also know that Jesus knew that Judas was a thief and that Judas would betray Him. But still Jesus chose him.
Jesus chose Simon Peter who would declare boldly "You are the Christ!" and "Even if I must die with You, I will not deny You!" But Peter did deny Him, just as Jesus said he would. Peter was hot-headed and impulsive but Jesus chose him anyway.
The disciples had their flaws. Thomas the doubter. Nathaniel the skeptic. James and John the glory seekers. Yet Jesus chose them. Jesus knows that we are flawed by sin but if we allow Him to work in our hearts and lives, we can be completely new creations.
There are many people who think THEY have to clean themselves up; they have to get their act together before they can come to Jesus. And what is even worse is people who profess Christ who look at someone and think he/she is not redeemable so we don't even attempt to introduce them to Jesus. We don't want their messy lives to make a mess of our pretty churches.
Maybe that is one of the reasons Jesus is blessing NewSpring Church. We welcome those with messy lives; those who live like non-Christians because they don't have a clue about who Christ is. But they come to NewSpring and hear the gospel and Jesus transforms their lives. HE cleans them up. HE helps them get their act together. Just as He did for me and countless numbers of others through out history. Example: our opening song yesterday was "Glory Train" by Ozzie Osborne. A guy attending in Charleston said he came with all sorts of walls up. Walked in and heard Glory Train and the walls came down. After hearing the gospel preached, he surrendered his life to Jesus Christ who performed the miracle of raising this man from the dead - along with 79 others yesterday at NewSpring.
So the celebration is not about NewSpring but about Jesus and life change. People who were dead and are now alive. And our anticipation is that Jesus will continue to raise people to new life until He returns.
Monday, September 12, 2011
Miracles
Last Thursday I spent 13 hours on my feet at the NewSpring Leadership Conference (NLC) in Anderson, SC. This was a most amazing day. I arrived at 6 AM and soon met up with the Facilities Cleaning Crew. Heather and I volunteered for the women's bathroom downstairs just outside the main auditorium. Our job was to clean counters, sinks and toilets, refill paper towel and toilet paper holders, and empty trash after each 15 minute break (one an hour). While the facilities were in use, we wiped up water and soap that dribbled onto the counters from hand washing.
While the ladies stood in line, I was able to engage the women in small talk about the day and their church back home. I believe everyone I spoke to lived east of the Mississippi River except one pastor's wife from England. I was glad to meet her because the church her husband and she lead is one that we - NewSpring - help support.
When I finished the last cleanup and walked out the door at 6:50 PM, I was worn out! I didn't get to hear the speakers but I will listen when the podcasts go up in a week or so. The men who spoke are some of the most innovative leaders in the Church today.
One woman, late in the day, heard me make the comment that I have never experienced anything like NewSpring. We began to talk and she asked why I thought God was doing so many great things in and through this particular church.
I gave her several reasons. Our pastor, Perry Noble, is very open about the struggles he has faced, the sins that he has overcome, and the counseling he has to help him stay the course; he's a regular guy who has been touched by God. Perry always tells us what the Bible says and is very direct in telling us what we need to do to be obedient to Christ. We are told over and over, invite your friends - invite, invite, invite - so we do and unbelievers come and hear the gospel and Jesus saves them. Perry tells us every week, last week was good but this week is going to be better. This breeds an anticipation that God is going to show up and He is going to do amazing things that only He can do.
As I was reading in Matthew this morning I read about Jesus being rejected in His hometown of Nazareth. The Bible says that Jesus "did not do many mighty works there, because of their unbelief." Then I read a great blog post by Pastor Steven Furtick entitled, "Jesus: What You See Is What You Get" on this same passage.
Too many times people in churches all across America don't expect Jesus to show up in powerful ways on Sunday - or any other day for that matter. So He doesn't. Not because He can't but because the people don't anticipate it. I don't ever want to get beyond the awe, the wonder that comes from encountering Jesus. I don't ever want to just go through the motions; I want to fully engage, fully anticipate that He will do something amazing in my life or lives of those around me. Miracles still happen!
Friday, September 2, 2011
Change
A lot of people don't like change. They always drive the same way to and from work or school or church. They eat lunch at the same place every weekend. They go to the same vacation spot every year. They sit in the same seat at church every week. A lot of people live by routine and are most comfortable with sameness.
I happen to like a certain amount of change. I drive different routes to and from work and church. Not every day but a couple of times a week. I especially like driving different routes home because it's OK if it takes me 10 or 15 minutes longer. I go to services at church at different times and sit in different places so I can I see different people.
I've changed jobs 4 times in 7 years (doing things I'd never done before) but only after 37 years at the same job. I changed churches but only after 23 years at the same church. I have found these changes to stimulating and definitely guided by the hand of God. Sometimes I wonder what I would be doing if I had been more attentive to God and the changes He asked me to make that I resisted long years ago.
As a follower of Jesus Christ my relationship with Him should always be growing, always changing, always seeing and hearing and understanding more about Him. If I'm not growing, not changing, I am stagnant. When I think of stagnant I see a stinking pond of scummy water. Maybe there is life there but it is not obvious to anyone. No one wants to jump in and swim around. My life in Christ is to be characterized by flowing rivers of living water. (John 7:38) Flowing rivers are moving and changing.
My church likes change as well. In fact one of our core values is growing things change. Since I've been at NewSpring during the last 3 years, our logo, our stated core values, our color scheme, the number of campuses, the number of people we serve, the way we celebrate Mother's Day, the location for the summer youth trip - all these have changed. We are growing so change is inevitable.
Just recently at the Greenville campus the Campus Pastor, the Discipleship Director, the Student Pastor, and the Audio Director changed. These changes did not come about because people left NewSpring or got fired or anything like that. Not at all. A couple were new hires but NewSpring is changing so the staff is constantly evaluated to be sure their gifts and talents are being utilized to the fullest so they are moving around. Well, except the former Student Pastor; Davey and Amanda are going to Indianapolis to plant a church.
The one thing that NEVER changes at NewSpring is the message of Jesus Christ alone for salvation. "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under Heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
I happen to like a certain amount of change. I drive different routes to and from work and church. Not every day but a couple of times a week. I especially like driving different routes home because it's OK if it takes me 10 or 15 minutes longer. I go to services at church at different times and sit in different places so I can I see different people.
I've changed jobs 4 times in 7 years (doing things I'd never done before) but only after 37 years at the same job. I changed churches but only after 23 years at the same church. I have found these changes to stimulating and definitely guided by the hand of God. Sometimes I wonder what I would be doing if I had been more attentive to God and the changes He asked me to make that I resisted long years ago.
As a follower of Jesus Christ my relationship with Him should always be growing, always changing, always seeing and hearing and understanding more about Him. If I'm not growing, not changing, I am stagnant. When I think of stagnant I see a stinking pond of scummy water. Maybe there is life there but it is not obvious to anyone. No one wants to jump in and swim around. My life in Christ is to be characterized by flowing rivers of living water. (John 7:38) Flowing rivers are moving and changing.
My church likes change as well. In fact one of our core values is growing things change. Since I've been at NewSpring during the last 3 years, our logo, our stated core values, our color scheme, the number of campuses, the number of people we serve, the way we celebrate Mother's Day, the location for the summer youth trip - all these have changed. We are growing so change is inevitable.
Just recently at the Greenville campus the Campus Pastor, the Discipleship Director, the Student Pastor, and the Audio Director changed. These changes did not come about because people left NewSpring or got fired or anything like that. Not at all. A couple were new hires but NewSpring is changing so the staff is constantly evaluated to be sure their gifts and talents are being utilized to the fullest so they are moving around. Well, except the former Student Pastor; Davey and Amanda are going to Indianapolis to plant a church.
The one thing that NEVER changes at NewSpring is the message of Jesus Christ alone for salvation. "And there is salvation in no one else, for there is no other name under Heaven given among men by which we must be saved." (Acts 4:12)
Monday, August 29, 2011
Sex in the Church
I am so proud of my pastor, Perry Noble, and his willingness to speak God's truth even when he knows he will get a lot of angry feedback. Yesterday's message, "Sex in the Church - part one" was a powerful message on the need to follow God's plans for marriage and for sex.
1. A Godly Man - a man who loves Jesus and has surrendered his life to Him
2. A Godly Woman - a woman who loves Jesus and has surrendered her life to Him
3. Marriage - defined by God as a man and a woman; government nor culture can change that definition
4. Sex - for procreation, enjoyment and intimacy
Putting sex before marriage negates the "godly" in the equation because it means the person is not willing to fully submit to Jesus and deny their own fleshly desires.
Next Sunday he will be speaking about specific issues affecting people in the church including pornography and homosexuality. These are not politically correct issues to address but God's love extends to all sinners who are willing to repent and surrender to Jesus as Lord. And there are people in just about every church who struggle with these and other sexual issues. The Church just usually chooses not to "offend" people with what God's word says.
Praying for Pastor P with more fervency this week as he prepares for "Sex in the Church - part two."
Monday, August 22, 2011
What Now
Yesterday was a huge day at NewSpring. For weeks we have been encouraged to invite our friends to church on August 21. So August 21 finally came and we had around 18,000 people attend one of our 14 services in 5 locations through out South Carolina. We saw 490 people cross over from death to life by surrendering their hearts and their lives to Jesus. To commemorate the day of their spiritual birth, we put a hospital bracelet on each person's arm with "DOB 8/21/11" and the scripture Perry emphasized John 3:3.
They also were given a Bible and a Bible reading plan plus some other information. We got their pertinent details so we can follow up with them. We want to be sure they are baptized. We want to get them involved in a small group to be discipled in their new faith. We want them to becomes owners of NewSpring. We want them to continue to walk in the victory that is theirs through the cross of Christ.
But this morning as I was thinking about yesterday and praying for these who made decisions, I wondered how many would leave the hospital bracelet on to wear to school or work today. Would each boldly proclaim on Monday what Jesus did in their life on Sunday? It also made me think about my responsibility to them. I will contact some of the 86 from the Greenville campus who surrendered to Christ, to talk about next steps and to encourage them.
Beyond this, though, I should also boldly proclaim what Jesus is doing in my life right now as well as how He rescued me from death and a meaningless life to live an abundantly joyful life because of His great love and sacrifice, knowing that I will spend all eternity in the presence of Jesus. Jesus is always at work around me. If He is not doing something in my life now, I certainly can not pour into the lives of others. I must make time to seek God in the Bible and in prayer so that I might see Him in my circumstances, my family, my friends so I can proclaim His love and faithfulness to others.
They also were given a Bible and a Bible reading plan plus some other information. We got their pertinent details so we can follow up with them. We want to be sure they are baptized. We want to get them involved in a small group to be discipled in their new faith. We want them to becomes owners of NewSpring. We want them to continue to walk in the victory that is theirs through the cross of Christ.
But this morning as I was thinking about yesterday and praying for these who made decisions, I wondered how many would leave the hospital bracelet on to wear to school or work today. Would each boldly proclaim on Monday what Jesus did in their life on Sunday? It also made me think about my responsibility to them. I will contact some of the 86 from the Greenville campus who surrendered to Christ, to talk about next steps and to encourage them.
Beyond this, though, I should also boldly proclaim what Jesus is doing in my life right now as well as how He rescued me from death and a meaningless life to live an abundantly joyful life because of His great love and sacrifice, knowing that I will spend all eternity in the presence of Jesus. Jesus is always at work around me. If He is not doing something in my life now, I certainly can not pour into the lives of others. I must make time to seek God in the Bible and in prayer so that I might see Him in my circumstances, my family, my friends so I can proclaim His love and faithfulness to others.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Rock n Roll Church
Today at Mobile Meals in Spartanburg I ran into a husband/wife delivery team who go to the church my parents attended and where I grew up and met Jesus. They are probably in their mid 80's.
We had not seen each other since funerals for my immediate family, the last one being 2006, so we talked a little bit and I had opportunity to tell them where I now go to church. The man, Billy, said he hoped it was not a rock and roll church. And I said, actually it is.
He leaned over and said I know a couple of people who probably would not be happy, one being your daddy. I said as respectfully and lovingly as I could that now that daddy is in heaven he would be thrilled that I am part of a church that is making heaven more crowded.
I am now 63 and I do not want to do "church" the same way I did when I was growing up. It was fine for the 1950's but it will not reach many of this generation or the next. The gospel message NEVER changes but our methods for delivering that message should change to reach a city full of dying people. I have never experienced a move of God like I have since being part of NewSpring. Thousands of people are being told every week of the loving sacrifice of Jesus and scores are accepting that message as Truth, confessing and repenting of sins and surrendering their lives to Jesus.
The service each week in NOT about me and my preferences but about Jesus and having a place where people look forward to bringing their non believing family, co-workers and neighbors, knowing they will enjoy the experience as well as hear about the saving grace of Jesus. Pastor P often says, Jesus was not boring and His church should not be either. To which I say, AMEN!!
We had not seen each other since funerals for my immediate family, the last one being 2006, so we talked a little bit and I had opportunity to tell them where I now go to church. The man, Billy, said he hoped it was not a rock and roll church. And I said, actually it is.
He leaned over and said I know a couple of people who probably would not be happy, one being your daddy. I said as respectfully and lovingly as I could that now that daddy is in heaven he would be thrilled that I am part of a church that is making heaven more crowded.
I am now 63 and I do not want to do "church" the same way I did when I was growing up. It was fine for the 1950's but it will not reach many of this generation or the next. The gospel message NEVER changes but our methods for delivering that message should change to reach a city full of dying people. I have never experienced a move of God like I have since being part of NewSpring. Thousands of people are being told every week of the loving sacrifice of Jesus and scores are accepting that message as Truth, confessing and repenting of sins and surrendering their lives to Jesus.
The service each week in NOT about me and my preferences but about Jesus and having a place where people look forward to bringing their non believing family, co-workers and neighbors, knowing they will enjoy the experience as well as hear about the saving grace of Jesus. Pastor P often says, Jesus was not boring and His church should not be either. To which I say, AMEN!!
Friday, July 29, 2011
Core Values
For the last two days I've been thinking a lot about NewSpring's core values and how I measure up personally. This is not brag about Nancy time but just an assessment of what God is doing in and through my life. This one is really just for me.
1. Growing people change - I read and study God's word daily. As I think about the launch of the Spartanburg campus, I see "stretch me" time; do things not done before. Change seems harder to recognize the longer I walk with Jesus.
2. I can't do life alone - in a small group and actively involved with my family and the teams I serve on at church. I could easily be a hermit and sit in a chair and read all day long. Perfectly content to be with me and my cat and a book.
3. Saved people serve people - take my grandson to Greenville each week for FUSE; serve on 3 teams through the church, volunteer with Mobile Meals. Content to be a background person; taking out the trash works for me. How does that tie in with my desire to be a hermit?
4. I can't out give God - at least a tithe is a firm discipline of mine as is giving generously to others as God provides direction and resources. Saving is great but hoarding is a sin.
5. Found people find people - always inviting; praying that the Spartanburg campus will get positive response from those I invite. Be bold and don't worry about the response, just keep inviting.
1. Growing people change - I read and study God's word daily. As I think about the launch of the Spartanburg campus, I see "stretch me" time; do things not done before. Change seems harder to recognize the longer I walk with Jesus.
2. I can't do life alone - in a small group and actively involved with my family and the teams I serve on at church. I could easily be a hermit and sit in a chair and read all day long. Perfectly content to be with me and my cat and a book.
3. Saved people serve people - take my grandson to Greenville each week for FUSE; serve on 3 teams through the church, volunteer with Mobile Meals. Content to be a background person; taking out the trash works for me. How does that tie in with my desire to be a hermit?
4. I can't out give God - at least a tithe is a firm discipline of mine as is giving generously to others as God provides direction and resources. Saving is great but hoarding is a sin.
5. Found people find people - always inviting; praying that the Spartanburg campus will get positive response from those I invite. Be bold and don't worry about the response, just keep inviting.
Monday, July 25, 2011
It's Gauntlet Time
I am so excited for my grandson, Nate. He should be at the TD Convention Center now, checking in for his first trip to the Gauntlet. This is the annual (and only) youth trip NewSpring has each year. There are about 280 students and 100 adults going from Greenville (about 1300 students and 500 or so adults total who will be loading up at each campus) and heading to Daytona for a week of Bible study, music, Jesus, sun and fun.
Nate is going to have a blast. He will make new friends, get closer to the ones he already has, learn more about Jesus, play at the beach, laugh, sing, read his Bible, get a little homesick and probably not enough sleep. I hope I hear "can't wait to do that again next year" as soon as he gets home.
The "theme" for the week at the Gauntlet is AWAKENING. Praying them up for God to move among the students and adults in amazing ways.
Nate is going to have a blast. He will make new friends, get closer to the ones he already has, learn more about Jesus, play at the beach, laugh, sing, read his Bible, get a little homesick and probably not enough sleep. I hope I hear "can't wait to do that again next year" as soon as he gets home.
The "theme" for the week at the Gauntlet is AWAKENING. Praying them up for God to move among the students and adults in amazing ways.
Saturday, July 23, 2011
WOW! I Mean WOW!
That's the best I can do after the Volunteer Vision Event we had Friday night at all NewSpring campuses. And I just HAVE to brag on God and all He is doing. Perry brought a powerful word from the Lord. I especially like his comparison of the streams of water flowing from the temple in Ezekiel 47 with rivers of living water that will flow out of believers. (John 7:37-38) What we are seeing at NewSpring is that river of water flowing out because we believe Jesus will do what He says He will do which is to make dead people alive.
Perry's philosophy from the very beginning eleven years ago has been "Listen to God and do what He says!" Perry is always the first to say we don't know what we are doing; we are just listening to God and then doing what He says. So we are out of space for children and youth in Anderson after building new facilities a few years ago. Columbia campus is already out of space. Charleston is setting attendance records. Florence is exploding. Greenville has gone from 1900 to over 2500 per week in the last year. But it's not just attendance. We are seeing hundreds of people surrender their lives to Jesus. It is so much FUN to watch God work these miracles week after week.
And God just keeps pouring out His blessing on this body of believers. The excitement, the anticipation, the reach our cities (and the world) attitude is electric. Tonight Perry announced 3 new locations for campuses to be started in 2012. SPARTANBURG - WooHoo!! Myrtle Beach and Greenwood. Of course we always list our campuses in alphabetical order so Spartanburg will be at the end of the list but it is first in MY list because it is my home.
This is a bittersweet announcement because I am so actively involved in the Greenville campus and have been since day one, three years ago, and will miss those I serve with and love so very much. But this is an "it's not about me" moment because I know lots of lost people in Spartanburg who will not make the 30+ minute drive to Greenville. NOW THEY WILL HAVE NO EXCUSE. God's gonna get at least some of them into His kingdom!
For the last two Sundays Perry's been saying we were going to start two campuses but if someone would give $2,000,000 (two million dollars) we would start a 3rd campus. On Monday of this week Perry got a call from someone saying you have the money...so in addition to Myrtle Beach and Spartanburg, we got to add Greenwood. Our God is so awesome!!
I am just overwhelmed that God allows me to be part of what He is doing all around South Carolina and the world through NewSpring. We also help support churches/ministers in Ukraine, the UK, Israel, and Kenya. People from all over the world are showing up in Anderson, SC to encounter God. There were two pastors from South Africa at the Vision Event. Last Sunday there were a couple of people from Switzerland who had been watching online and wanted to find out more. It is mind boggling! God is just so amazing.
Help me, Lord, to hear Your voice; to listen and then do what You say! Help me to be the conduit for the rivers of living water to my friends who are dead and don't even know it.
Perry's philosophy from the very beginning eleven years ago has been "Listen to God and do what He says!" Perry is always the first to say we don't know what we are doing; we are just listening to God and then doing what He says. So we are out of space for children and youth in Anderson after building new facilities a few years ago. Columbia campus is already out of space. Charleston is setting attendance records. Florence is exploding. Greenville has gone from 1900 to over 2500 per week in the last year. But it's not just attendance. We are seeing hundreds of people surrender their lives to Jesus. It is so much FUN to watch God work these miracles week after week.
And God just keeps pouring out His blessing on this body of believers. The excitement, the anticipation, the reach our cities (and the world) attitude is electric. Tonight Perry announced 3 new locations for campuses to be started in 2012. SPARTANBURG - WooHoo!! Myrtle Beach and Greenwood. Of course we always list our campuses in alphabetical order so Spartanburg will be at the end of the list but it is first in MY list because it is my home.
This is a bittersweet announcement because I am so actively involved in the Greenville campus and have been since day one, three years ago, and will miss those I serve with and love so very much. But this is an "it's not about me" moment because I know lots of lost people in Spartanburg who will not make the 30+ minute drive to Greenville. NOW THEY WILL HAVE NO EXCUSE. God's gonna get at least some of them into His kingdom!
For the last two Sundays Perry's been saying we were going to start two campuses but if someone would give $2,000,000 (two million dollars) we would start a 3rd campus. On Monday of this week Perry got a call from someone saying you have the money...so in addition to Myrtle Beach and Spartanburg, we got to add Greenwood. Our God is so awesome!!
I am just overwhelmed that God allows me to be part of what He is doing all around South Carolina and the world through NewSpring. We also help support churches/ministers in Ukraine, the UK, Israel, and Kenya. People from all over the world are showing up in Anderson, SC to encounter God. There were two pastors from South Africa at the Vision Event. Last Sunday there were a couple of people from Switzerland who had been watching online and wanted to find out more. It is mind boggling! God is just so amazing.
Help me, Lord, to hear Your voice; to listen and then do what You say! Help me to be the conduit for the rivers of living water to my friends who are dead and don't even know it.
Friday, July 1, 2011
A Glimpse of Heaven
I have not read the books "90 Minutes in Heaven" or "Heaven Is Real" and have not had any trips to heaven and back myself so I don't know what will be like. There are some descriptions in the Bible but I don't think it really matters what it looks like. What will matter is I will be in the presence of Jesus and will worship Him forever.
My glimpse of heaven occurred a few years ago when I had the opportunity to go to Kenya on the first of many mission trips undertaken by NewSpring Church in partnership with 410 Bridge. We had been told that each of us should be prepared, during Sunday church services, to share our favorite Bible verse and tell a little bit about why it is our favorite.
I was prepared with one of my favorite verses from Romans, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you might overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." But as I sat there watching the Kenyans from different tribes - who used to be enemies - dressed in their colorful native dress singing and dancing and worshiping Jesus along side 12 or 15 very white people; when I heard the translators speaking in 3 or 4 different languages; when I saw the joy and heard the testimonies in spite of the very deep poverty; I was overwhelmed with God's grace and mercy. I thought of how God loves THE WORLD; Jesus died for the entire world!
And I had my glimpse of heaven. My Bible verse changed to Revelation 7:9-10. Every nation, all tribes and people and languages. I am too often isolated and insulated from the world and I forget how great the love of God is. To be halfway around the world with people who don't look like me, don't talk like me, don't eat what I eat, don't dress like I dress but LOVE Jesus just as much as I do caused me to weep tears of gratitude for the greatness of God.
All this came flooding back as I was reading in Acts 2 about the coming of the Holy Spirit. God gave them that day, I think, a glimpse of heaven. "And at this sound the multitude came together and they were bewildered because each one was hearing them speak in his own language...we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God."
Help me, Lord God, to remember Your love, Your salvation is for ALL people including the drug addict and the prostitute; the bank CEO and the PTA chairman; the welfare mom and the soccer mom; the native born and the illegal immigrant. Take away my prejudices, my hardness of heart so that I might reach out to increase Your kingdom and help make heaven a little more crowded.
My glimpse of heaven occurred a few years ago when I had the opportunity to go to Kenya on the first of many mission trips undertaken by NewSpring Church in partnership with 410 Bridge. We had been told that each of us should be prepared, during Sunday church services, to share our favorite Bible verse and tell a little bit about why it is our favorite.
I was prepared with one of my favorite verses from Romans, "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in Him, so that you might overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." But as I sat there watching the Kenyans from different tribes - who used to be enemies - dressed in their colorful native dress singing and dancing and worshiping Jesus along side 12 or 15 very white people; when I heard the translators speaking in 3 or 4 different languages; when I saw the joy and heard the testimonies in spite of the very deep poverty; I was overwhelmed with God's grace and mercy. I thought of how God loves THE WORLD; Jesus died for the entire world!
And I had my glimpse of heaven. My Bible verse changed to Revelation 7:9-10. Every nation, all tribes and people and languages. I am too often isolated and insulated from the world and I forget how great the love of God is. To be halfway around the world with people who don't look like me, don't talk like me, don't eat what I eat, don't dress like I dress but LOVE Jesus just as much as I do caused me to weep tears of gratitude for the greatness of God.
All this came flooding back as I was reading in Acts 2 about the coming of the Holy Spirit. God gave them that day, I think, a glimpse of heaven. "And at this sound the multitude came together and they were bewildered because each one was hearing them speak in his own language...we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God."
Help me, Lord God, to remember Your love, Your salvation is for ALL people including the drug addict and the prostitute; the bank CEO and the PTA chairman; the welfare mom and the soccer mom; the native born and the illegal immigrant. Take away my prejudices, my hardness of heart so that I might reach out to increase Your kingdom and help make heaven a little more crowded.
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