Leaving the parking lot yesterday was surreal. Definitely something I've prayed about and for, for a long, long time. We are overjoyed to be debt free! God's way of working things out always exceeds what you dreamed up or how you thought things would best work! I am honored to be a part of this church, this team and this season of outreach and ministry for McDonough.
I have been blessed to be a part of two church plants and this, in a lot of ways feels like planting a church. The great thing about it is, we already have 200 people planting with us!! This move has been much harder for some than others...and rightfully so. But I read a question yesterday and it really made me think - here's the question - "Is it possible to get so wrapped up in our faith, that the concepts of faith become more important than our actual faith?" The answer is yes! That made me think about the church... Is is possible to get so wrapped up in the concept of church, that "doing church" {i.e. dinners, socials, fundraisers, plaques on the wall, classes that we've always had, doing things the way we've always done them, & even the relationships we build with people} becomes more important than true church? I believe that the answer is, YES! What is church? It is us. It is a group of people who have come together for 1 purpose and that's Jesus. We are the church, whether we meet in a cathedral or a small, rented store-front; a multi-million dollar building or underground. Who we are not determined by where we meet or what our facility looks like - although I believe that God blesses when you prepare for people and do it with excellence - it is determined by who we believe God is, how we allow Him to shape us, as well as whatever He calls us to do.
I am praying and ask you to say a prayer with me that our church as well as all Christians, will begin walking out our faith and not just living with "faith" around us. Let's also realize that we are the church...not the building and not just the group of people that meet with me each week, but all people that have put their trust in God and live for Him. I love how two different churches are drawing close to each other; bonds are being made & faith being strengthened as we receive God's awesome blessings! My heart is full when I think about all that God is going to do through Tabernacle of Praise & The Landing Church @ McDonough as we both move forward!!
Blessings ~ W
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