Friday/Saturday I attended the Annual Conference of the Free Methodist church where the leaders of all the FM churches in Oregon get together to talk business and hear about what's going on around the world. Sure, it was a bunch of old pastors talking about church 'business' and voting on committees as always, but it was amazing- the housekeeping of God's family =)
But it struck a chord with me this year. Bishop Thomas lost his son since last year, but he seemed more joyful and at peace than he did last year- he has a new resolve to his life.
He called us all to give THANKS at ALL TIMES, to PRAY CONTINUALLY, and not be afraid of God doing new things on larger scales, and that the best leaders are first followers.
In China there are up to 12 times the number of FM churches as there are here. WHY? because they truly believe and will go through persecution for it.
I drove home from Eugene alone because no one else wanted to ride in my hot, A/C-less car, and I must admit I was a little annoyed. But the solitude was good for me. I found myself watching My Father's World go by while listening to Jadon Lavik sing the song by the same name.
During that ride God brought me through an unplanned prayer practice- thankfulness, introspection, retrospection on my life's path, humility, request, equipping, joy, and peace. I came away so thankful for what God is doing through and in me with a peace and excitement beyond my understanding. It's not about numbers of people in your church or amount of money in the bank- it's about caring for people and their hearts.
This is my Father's world and to my listening ears
All nature sings and round me rings the music of the spheres
This is my Father's world I rest me in the thought
Of rocks and trees of skies and seas His hand the wonders wrought
This is my Father's world O let me ne'er forget
That though the wrong seems oft so strong God is the ruler yet
This is my Father's world oh the battle is not done
Jesus Who died will be satisfied And earth and Heav'n will be one
Yes Jesus who died will be satisfied
and earth and heaven
Oh earth and heaven
oh earth and heaven
will be one
