I know we shouldn't be but sometimes we are! Amazed by God, that is. I've been in pastoral ministry for a long time and pastoring Abundant Life Church now for nearly 18 years. This past weekend was one of those "amazed by God" moments. Don't get me wrong, He amazes me all the time. I'm amazed he called me to ministry. I'm amazed He called me to preach. I'm amazed he called me to be a church planter. I'm amazed to be able to pastor a growing, healthy, vibrant, and such a fun church.
My amazement has nothing to do with His ability but more my own lack of faith. This past Sunday was another painful reminder. I offerd an opportunity for people to respond to a very simple gospel presentation and make the commitment to take the plunge in baptism. We had four previously scheduled for that day. But by the end of the day an additional 60 people walked the steps down into the baptistry in the clothes they wore to church while people gathered around and cheered. It was an amazing moment!
Anyway, after the first service, I walked off the stage, sat in my chair conversing with another staff member, when I got a tap on my shoulder. It was someone actually wanting to be baptized. Right then and there! He said he'd wanted to do it before but no one actually asked. So since I asked he said yes.
Actually I was kind of "amazed." I shouldn't have been. After all, I had asked. I knew there were people there who needed to do this. But still I was caught somewhat off guard. Going into the second, third, and fourth services, I was more prepared. And wow! God still amazed me with an overwhelming response. What God did in me this past weekend was to amaze me on one hand and strenghten my faith on the other.
I stand amazed at our great God. Do it again!
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