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This past Sunday was definitely different. The songs we sang weren’t unusual in any way. The sermon wasn’t markedly different than any other sermon I’ve been privileged to preach. Worship was what it has always been.
But Sunday was different. It was the last Sunday in our building. People were very cognizant that after a long year of hurricane changes, we have finally reached the point where we must say goodbye to an old and comfortable friend.
We have prayed with, sung with, studied with, preached to, shared weddings and funerals and new births alike in this place. The faces have changed over the years–some new, some the same, some remarkably changed.
Yes, Sunday was different. We have been family in this location for a long time. Some longer than others.
Last night was different as well. Our last service of any kind in this location. As befitting the occasion, Don McLaughlin, who preaches for the North Atlanta church, was here and delivered the message. The North Atlanta church has partnered with us for over a year now in recovery and rebuilding and renewal.
Don told us of visiting Israel in the middle of the latest flare up of hostilities. Tourism was at a lull and they enjoyed some rather personalized attention from the tour guides. In one location, Don was led to the very brook of David and Goliath fame. The one where David chose the five smooth stones.
Don presented several of us with a stone from that stream. He charged me with keeping a slightly bigger stone for the whole church family.
In a week that is so very different because of circumstances and situations and opportunities, we have been given visible reminders of the simple tool David used in great faith to slay a giant.
This week is different because we are finally coming face to face with another giant. A time of transition. Being a church temporarily without tangible walls in a building of our own. Meeting in a funeral chapel for Sunday morning worship. Struggling to find midweek alternatives.
May God give us the strength and the faith and the tools to slay all of our giants.
The giant of indifference.
The giant of fear and petrification.
The giant of being dependent on a building.
Who or what is your giant? What are you turning into a giant that doesn’t need to become one?
Goliath’s can still die!
Let’s be giant slayers all!
God Bless!
Les, Jr.
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lesjr
You said, “Being a church temporarily without tangible walls in a building of our own.”
While strange to us this is actually what it was like with the first century church and look what they through the power of God did!
God will bless you as you slay the giants.
Thanks for the kind words, Danny! That’s what I pray we do!
Bro\’ Les, Take comfort in the fact that the “all things” of Romans 8:28 includes hurricanes & uncooperative car dealerships. All of those disturbing events are working together for good, for you and your flock. Why, because God is greater than anything in His creation and He loves us with an unlimited love. If Christ waits, five years from now when you look back on these series of events, you will be amazed at what God has done. Grace and Peace, Royce Ogle
A church without walls. It’s what we are supposed to be anyway. It’s a good time to remind everyone of this reality. I still think there’s a creepiness factor at the funeral home. Keep up the great work. Those who do not see your talents will be put to shame one day. The ONE who counts, sees them fully.
Hey Les,
I can definitely understand this situation, as I have been there done that. I will be praying for you guys about this. I will say that this could really be a special time and opportunity for your church, if you see it as such. Just as John said, we are a church without walls anyway, think of the teaching opportunities presented here. Bless you my brother!
Shalom!
clockhart
Left you a comment under “Good News”
We’ll be keeping your congregation in our prayers. Love,
Christi Hyde
I am writing this as a means of introduction and I hope to share a very powerful thing God has done in me with you. Please see my blog for more information. Start at the beginning and read as you like. I am ALWAYS open to feedback and response and give the same as well.
Have a super day!
Larry
I was one of the people that was blessed with the opportunity to be part of North Atlanta’s partnership with you as you rebuild from Katrina. You had a treat when you listened to Don. He told us about some of his experiences in Israel also. God bless as you begin a new phase in your history.