The Building was Nearly Full...

...why did it seem so empty?

During praise & worship yesterday morning I became aware of what a lot of people in the congregation were feeling. There were a lot of heavy hearts. Some felt shell-shocked. Others were just plain tired.

The sad thing was as I was hearing God say, "Fear not, little flock," I saw the people standing around waiting for something to happen. Why? For two weeks now I have had the impression that God really desires for us to reach. stretch just a little. grasp. and step in. We don't have to wait for something to happen. The "something" is within us! If we would reach, step in, etc, the something we want to have happen would start within. Then we would see it manifest without.

The fatigue & downcast feelings would fall off if we could realize He is already in our midst, and inside of us. He is willing and able to meet our every need. Dare I say above what we can ask or think.

Later, during the sermon, Pastor John mentioned this same Power that has been deposited into our lives that remains untapped. This Power (the Holy Spirit) gives us the 'edge.' If we do not tap in, it leaves us to our natural resources only. He said it was much like having a swimming pool in the backyard but never getting in it. We can't experience the refreshing He has for us - the power, the knowledge, and the ability to rise above our circumstances - if we never get in the water.

What a concept: Coming to church already full - having stepped into His living water so that it is flowing out of us when we gather together to worship. He is with us always. He wants to be more active in our lives. When we will let Him? Imagine what it would be like to walk into service with our hearts and lives full. Our church services would be full as well. From the first chord that is struck on the first song.

Just imagine it.