Every Sunday if I arrive with an expectant and prepared heart I know I will be able to see the LORD moving in the midst of His people gathering. This past Sunday was no exception. I spent extra time driving around before I arrived at the Worship House this particular Sunday. I had a lot on my mind and heart and wanted to be sure I was zeroed in and dialed in to where I knew I needed to be before entering and engaging with anyone. I’m thankful that I did that, because it prepared me to walk in with expectation of HIM and HIM alone. Here are a few ways I saw Him move this week with my brothers and sisters in Christ.
1. Second week with a new baby in out midst. Over the course of church planting, I’ve grown accustomed that whenever this is a new baby in church, it’s usually mine, ha, as I have FOUR kids. These past new weeks provided an awesome encouragement and motivation to reach this next generation of first time moms and dads. What made me feel even more honored, is that I believe both of these babies were brought to church by single mothers. What an honor is to have had the opportunity to steward God’s fearfully and wonderfully made blessings in our nursery. I also loved seeing the church body welcome both Moms and babies. The genuine smiles and authentic welcomes were fuel to this tired pastors soul.
2. Our worship team. I can’t say enough positive things about their genuine desire to worship the LORD and offer HIM the praise He is worthy. Every week they courageously go before the LORD and our church and work hard to get us into His presence. We had so many sick and under the weather this week as well as other limitations that could easily derailed and hindered the worship, but that didn’t happen. They chose a posture of praise and perseverance and that made a HUGE difference. Again, I can’t say enough positive things about this group of people.
3. People staying late. I love it when the service is over and people are still everywhere talking and fellowshipping. This encourages me and demonstrates to me that this is more than a check list, this is a priority and a desire for others as well. It is encouraging to see people go against cultural norms and commit to Koinonia. I pray for more of this to arise and continue here and for more people like this to join our church family.
Nate Staton 