Monday, November 23, 2009

Multitude Monday





"O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; for His lovingkindness is everlasting."
I Chron. 16:34


Yesterday a portion of our church choir and orchestra gathered in the parking lot of our church. Within a few minutes the three buses cruised slowly down the hill and came to a stop. Like a bunch of excited high school kids going to the "big game" we climbed aboard.

Once everyone was seated and accounted for, the buses began the journey to a little town about an hour and a half north of us. We were on our way to an event we had been anticipating for months. The congregation in this little town had just moved into their brand new church building and invited us to sing during their evening service.

The people were waiting for us when we arrived. They had prepared a meal that was absolutely amazing. It was a complete Thanksgiving Dinner! The tables were just groaning under the weight of turkey, ham and all the sides you can imagine. And the deserts!!! I could hardly make a choice.

We were served first and then the rest of the church family joined us. I have always loved fact that when people have Jesus "in common" - there is an immediate connection. We may not know each other well, but we know the One who has given us everything and it binds us together. I am a naturally shy person, but that commonality puts me at my ease.

I am thankful for the unity we have in Jesus. I am thankful that no matter what our life story, when He is the common thread we are family. It fills my heart to see the difference He makes in a life. It is, for me, the greatest testimony to the truth of the Gospel.

It is not a set of beliefs that binds our hearts together. It is not a philosophy or a new way of looking at things. It is a relationship with the great God of creation. It is that which gives hope and joy and meaning and purpose to life. It is that which takes a life that was full of despair and pain and turns it around. It is the true and living God whose lovingkindness is everlasting."

An elderly gentlemen closed in prayer when we were finished singing. My heart overflowed as I listened to his voice, a little weak with age but strong in the faith of a lifetime. Nothing speaks more eloquently than a life lived for Jesus.

I am so thankful.
Linda

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