Assisted Living Singing

Tonight our SHARE group went to the Town Creek Facility to sing songs. We put our kids out there to sing various children's songs. The B-I-B-L-E, Jesus Loves Me (the clapping version), I'm All Wrapped Up, Blue Skies and Rainbows, and a few more. The kids had also colored some pictures to give to the people watching us from their wheel chairs. After putting our kids on display we felt compelled to sing a few classic hymns that opened a few eyes and perked up our audience. I saw one lady just close her eyes and mouth the words with a huge smile on her face.

This small (and for some awkward) offering had Jesus written all over it. Our little 30 minutes of time meant the world to these people whose routine consists of mainly hanging out in a common area waiting for someone to come talk to them.

I had a thought as I was wheeling one lady (ninety something years old...she couldn't remember) back to the common area. If the Lord blesses me with as many years, I pray that people come to see me to sing praises to God. What a blessing it was tonight.

Small Groups

Our congregation is beginning the actual process of meeting in smaller groups of people throughout the town on Sunday evenings. I absolutely love that we are moving in this direction. It reflects a way of thinking that is similar to that of the early Christians. It also helps us move outside of the church walls.

As I talk to more and more people in our congregation about this move our elders have made (alongside of the ministry staff), I find that many people are somewhat enthusiastic. Obviously, questions and concerns arise, but this happens with any transition. Most of the time, I believe, these concerns will be assuaged as the groups begin meeting. There is nothing like actually experiencing small groups to know what they are like. There seems to be a general attitude that is eagerly anticipating the change; perhaps God will make himself known to us more through small groups.

This is an exciting time in Huntsville. God is moving us closer to meeting people's needs in a way we don't currently offer. I pray that he continues to guide us in His wisdom and His discernment. Many decisions are being made now that will determine our direction for a little while anyway.

You, Lord, are the only one we seek to please. We need you to guide our leaders' hearts as they make these decisions. Help us to bring glory to your name, not our own. It is for the sake of your name that we move toward meeting in smaller groups. May people look at this and say...God is truly among them.