On Sunday, you noticed the young people sit with Tom in the side aisle at the back of the church. Afterwards, in talking to Fred you ask if there might be some way to include them, and their music. He frowns and quietly explains, “I regularly speak to the elders about involving the youth in worship. However, their response is always the same – there are only a few young people in the congregation and the majority prefer hymns. I have questioned that. They see the growing numbers and feel they have no reason to change. Nor, do they believe praising and worshipping a holy God can be achieved with a cacophony of drums and guitars!” At your wide-eyed expression, Fred chuckles. “I know! I know! They also try and placate me by saying they will pray about it.” Unthinkingly, a derisive grunt escapes you as your belief is that’s a polite way of saying ‘no’.
You are leaving as Tom strides towards you. “Thank you for encouraging me on Thursday. I do believe heavenly songs are a sign of God’s desire to move among His people. My parents, are Christians, but aren’t church goers, however, they are happy to let me use one of our barns for the youth to have somewhere to go on a Saturday night. I, and two others can play guitar, another, the piano and to form a group we just need a drummer. Dad knows someone who will lend us his second-hand PA equipment, but before I can go any further, he wants me to have people around my age to support me. Would you be interested in joining us? Surprised, you pause, and he rushes on, “I’d like to have a team of people, believe as you do, before opening it up. What do you think?” Delighted at being asked, you let your ideas flow bringing Tom to laugh, “I guess that’s a ‘yes’! Can you come to supper at the farm next Saturday night?”
Walking home your excitement mounts. In being willing to wait, God has moved in a way you couldn’t have anticipated. It could take weeks to set up, but you are already picturing the barn filled with happy, laughing and praising people, with meals shared, friendships made, and those interested in joining God’s family. This could be your heavenly experience being released on earth.
Word: “As the snow and rain that fall from heaven do not return until they have accomplished their purpose…so also will be the word I speak; it does not return to me unfilled. My word performs my purpose and fulfils the mission I sent it out to accomplish.” Isaiah 55:10-11 (TPT)
Worship: “You are My Vision” Rend Collective 4 mins