Last night I attended a new members group meeting for the church Kipper and I (and girls) are joining. This church is the Presbyterian Church of Wyoming, OH. It is a beautiful structure and is around the corner, literally.
Convenient it is, beautiful it is....but God filled it REALLY is.
At the group gathering, we spoke of expectations. As new members of a church, what can we expect from the church, it's pastors and staff and the community. Also, what is expected of us as part of that community.
Ed Goode, Sr. Pastor mentioned how we should look for God beyond the Worship service on Sunday. (of course we will look for God in worship too). David Z, Assoc. pastor spoke about or commitments of stewardship. Both spoke about being yourself and they too will be themselves. WOW, at our first meeting we are being told to be missionaries and give money and do not change................. OH I DO NOT THINK SO!
Ok, so that could have been what they were saying. But to me, they were saying we can be REAL!
REAL, REAL, REAL....what more can I ask for in a church. I can show up on Sunday, or Wednesday, or Tuesday or Friday for that matter and I can be me. I can be my REAL and broken self. I can participate if and when and where I am comfortable. I can go outside the church and share my experience with others, if I wish. I can bring my problems and joys to this beautiful and loving place. I can bring my children and family and be nurtured and loved and prayed for. I can ask for help and can give help when asked of me. WOW.
And for all these blessings, I WILL give back. I will give of my time and my tithes. I will share my knowledge and wealth that God has so blessed me with. WOW.
Now this is an amazing thing, God....He (or she if you prefer) is truly everywhere and has continued to bless me richly. Sitting in the room last night, He was right there, with us all. I am so lucky. I am so grateful. And just think, I found a church with these wonderful things and as a bonus, it is so beautiful and is just around the corner!
Amen and Amen!
6 comments:
Wow - I am humbled by your words. I look forward to sharing in ministry and life with you in the coming years. I pray that we will continue to be a community of real people being real with one another serving a REAL and incredible Savior.
Sounds like you found a real church. It is beautiful too.
I think that any church that expects you to be anyone other than yourself isn't following the Lord's will. After all He made us who we are. Why would he then ask us to be anyone different?
Glad you found someplace you feel is a right fit for you and your family!
what a gift! you were led right to it...isn't that incredible??
Okay, even your pastor leaves a comment?
Wow!
This is a great post. Aren't you glad they "made" you attend a new members class now?
Makes me want to come to Wyoming.
If only it weren't such a drive.
That is awesome the way God works. Funny how you ended up in the house right across from where you needed to be. You may not have known...but God did. He loves you and is working constantly in your life! I am so happy for you!
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