A Day Of Mixed Emotions…
Yesterday Cindy and I had a full day of church activities. I had the blessing of preaching the homecoming message at the first church I pastored (over 20 years ago). It was great to see so many of the faces we knew and loved while were were there. Some who were children during our time there are now adults with children of their own. It was so great to sit and listen and join in as they sang the old four part harmony gospel songs that were so popular duing the “singing school” days. This is a singing church! It was great to watch as people of all ages (yes even teenagers and some in their 20′s) stood up and “led a song” from one of the three hymnals that this church uses. Several piano players are always used during the song service (whoever the person leading the song at the moment asks to play) and they all can make the piano sing. No matter what “style” christian music you prefer you would have to admire and admit that the singing at this church is heart warming and beautiful. From solo’s to quartets they blessed the Lord and sang with all their hearts. It was good to go back again, see hear and taste (yes they have heavenly food too! Great cooks!!) their home cooking. I’m sure that this is what one corner of heaven is going to be – all day singing and dinner on the grounds. It’s a dying art form but one that we really enjoyed experiencing again yesterday!
The morning was also a little sad for us. This was the first time we can remember going to homecoming at Bodcaw #1 that Cindy’s mom was unable to be with us. Bodcaw was here “home town” and Bodcaw #1 was her home church. How she loved those homecomings! She loved the singing as much as anyone around. To hear her sing with all of her heart, those old time four part harmony songs was a joy and one that we will cherish forever. Thankfully Cindy’s dad was able to be there and give the morning devotional. Seemed like old times! Many of the faces that sat in the pews while I was pastor there have gone home. I couldn’t begin to name the names for fear of missing one. Each one of those people have a part in our hearts and having shaped our lives for the better. Precious memories. Soon though – because of Jesus we will be with them again and enjoy a homecoming like none of us have ever experienced here. AMEN!!!!!!
Last night we had the blessing of preaching at First Baptist Church of Lewisville. This great missions minded, loving church is always a blessing to be with. They have such big hearts. They are one of our partner churches for Life House Ministries. It was great to have several from Life House Church drive up to be with us and many of them shared their hearts during the service. It was a great night! Pray for this great church as God is working in their hearts to possibly step out on faith to begin a ministry in their part of the world that could impact their church and their community in big ways. God is working if only you and I will get out of the way and let Him!
I appreciate the members of Life House taking care of the services while I was away. It’s great to see many stepping up and showing more and more leadership abilities. Pray for our church family and if you get a chance – come worship with us one Sunday to experience Life House with us!
Pastor James