The testimonies of God’s faithfulness over time showed me that an eternal view fosters thankfulness. God’s love is enduring even when I am frightened by change or discouraged by the crisis of the moment. Here is how I thank God for His work in my own church.
People moved in and joined the church. People moved away for jobs. Some moved back.
His love endures forever.
Babies
were born. Children were adopted. Children grew up. Children’s children were
born.
His love
endures forever.
The
church building was finished. The church building was added onto. The building
was enlarged again.
His love
endures forever.
People
with many backgrounds and ethnic heritages attended. Shee Ping. Akousa. Stage.
Angela. Ruchi. Ivar. They worshipped God with one voice.
His love
endures forever.
Our
town grew. Our town grew in resistance to the Gospel. God’s
people grew in their love for the town’s souls.
His love
endures forever.
The
Senior Pastor had black hair. The Pastor had many sanctifying experiences. The
Pastor had grey hair.
His love
endures forever.
Ministry
groups waxed. Ministry groups waned. Some members lost weight. Some members
gained weight. A youth named Terri grew up to become a Youth Group leader.
His love
endures forever.
The
building went from a polling place to a blood donation place. The pew Bibles
went from NIV to ESV. The hymnals went from blue to red. The window treatments
went from ‘70s drapes to ‘90s blinds. Vacation Bible School went from being
called Vacation Bible School to being called Fun Week and back again. The
nurseries went from one to two. The siding went from dark brown wood to light
cream vinyl. Communion went from six times a year to two times a month. The
seating went from chairs to pews. Our street went from sleepy to busy. The pastor’s
office went from a corner of his home to the corner office in the church. The newsletter
went from being composed line-by-line on a manual typewriter to being posted
online. Attendance went from 80 to over 200.
His love
endures forever.Give thanks to the Lord for He is good.
His love endures forever.
I love this! His love does indeed endure forever. What a good reminder to keep a big picture, eternal focus. Thank you.
ReplyDelete(and I know this isn't about your church, but I just have to add: He gives friends who stay in your life even when you move far away. His love endures forever.)
As a pastor's wife just starting out in a new location, this was so encouraging. The Lord's good purposes extend through many years!
ReplyDeleteYes, yes, and yes! Thank your for this uplifting post. After 10 years walking with my pastor-husband and facing our churches 50th anniversary next year, this is just what I needed to hear.
ReplyDelete