Matthew 19:14 NLT
But Jesus said, "Let the children come to me. Don't stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children."
Sunday was a great day at The Community Fellowship even though our numbers were not great. It was Labor Day. But the spirit in the building, the excitement among our people was sweet too. One thing was strange. Every where I turned someone wanted to speak with.
That is not a new concept because pastors get this fairly often. People want to take. But this day was a little different as it was my wedding anniversary and my precious wife had helped me deliver the message (catch that on www.btw21.com at 10am EDT Wednesday, 11pm EDT Friday or 11am or 6:30pm EDT Sunday). I talked to a couple people who had just found our church and are so excited about God. I talked to a couple other people who are in crisis.
But as I was walking toward my office a mom and dad caught my attention. Their little guy wanted to talk with me. You see, I remember when this kid was born. I've been his family's pastor for over a decade. The dad is a miracle walking because he used to be addicted to drugs in terrible ways. God has a hold on this family, and I love them dearly.
I began a conversation with this young boy, and we ended up praying together as he asked Jesus into his heart. This was and IS awesome. It is what I do is all about. I get excited. Whether the person is 8 years old or 88 years old, when a person meets Jesus, that is a time to celebrate. God does and so should we. It never gets old.
Since Sunday I have thought a good bit about praying with this boy. We have had some struggles and some people who are really hurting. I talked to people daily who are on the edge of life and sometimes on the edge of death. What really makes a difference is the fact if people know Jesus. This coming Sunday is our 5th year celebration as a church, and we will baptize more people at one time than we have ever baptized before. What an awesome day it is going to be, and this boy who accepted Jesus is just one of those who is ready to be baptized!
We are committed to meeting needs and sharing Jesus with people in need. Meeting needs often opens the door to sharing Jesus.
This young boy who accepted Jesus had a smile a mile wide when we finished. His mom and dad were excited. Honestly, it never gets old. It also gives me perspective. When I get down, when I am tired, when I am hurt, when I am not sure if I can go on, I remember the people that have walked toward Jesus. Then I pray for another person who will do the same. It never gets old. Life is all about Jesus!
I tell you the truth, anyone who doesn't receive the Kingdom of God like a child will never enter it.
In the same way, it is not my heavenly Father's will that even one of these little ones should perish.
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