Surprise Sunday,Choir, Children's church

Today was “Surprise Sunday”. It was more of a surprise for the adults in our church, rather than the children. A past pastor from our church was secretly invited to bring his family back to New Jersey and speak today. It was a delight to all who attend our church for the time he and his family served here during their seven years here.

He requested that the choir sing “Holy is He” as the special. I do not believe I have ever heard such a powerful presentation by our small choir. There are only twenty voices in our choir on a normal day. From that perspective, it was a normal day. We are always able to sing well since we are usually well-rehearsed, but today there was a special presence of the Lord with us and the song seemed to shake the rafters. It was a memorable moment. One where the presence of God seemed especially near.

We had a new helper in our Primary Church today. An adult that my wife wants to consider taking over the four and five-year-olds when we leave. It is something we have prayed about for some time. We have had several clear “NO!” answers because it overwhelms so many people. But it has been our ministry to the church for six years now. It will be difficult to leave these little smiling faces.

We have watched some of our “little ones” grow through elementary school into Junior High. Some we now have every Sunday morning have come from the nursery to our class. It is sobering. Those who come from christian homes, we reinforce the teaching of their parents. Those who come from non-christian homes, we give a foundation of faith. Only the Lord knows how it will turn out for them. That is also sobering.

Each of our children, in turn, has had their part in helping us and if we were closer, our granddaughter would be joining us next summer. Hopefully, each of our own children will, as we pray for each of our current “little ones” grow into their own ministry. God has promised that His Word will not return to Him void of fruit. (Isiah 55:11)

What Heaven will see of our ministry, only time will tell. We plant, sometimes we water, but God gives the increase. So whatever you are doing for the Lord, be faithful. God will bless.