Today was a remarkable day. After years of praying, dreaming, and working, our church family enjoyed worshipping in the new building. It was a happy day.
It was happy because there was so much unity. It was happy because of all the natural light. It was happy to see so many people working together. It was happy to see the Lord's hand in so many ways.
So many have sacrificed and given so much. Our people have made an investment for future generations. But most importantly, we have come together to use the gifts that God has given us to build something that demonstrates our love for Him and the mission He has given us.
People build buildings all the time. The Dallas Cowboys are building a monster in Irving that will dwarf our house of worship. But for my money, no building is more honorable or impressive than one built for the worship of God and the proclamation of the hope of His gospel.
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Sunday, August 19, 2007
Getting reacquainted
I'm sorry that I've been negligent. I've thought of this conversation, only to get distracted and not resume. Since we last "talked" I've had the joy of welcoming a new granddaughter into the world (I'll show you pictures some time), and I've been preparing for our church's new building.
Next week is the first Sunday in the new worship center. After over four years of planning and labor, it is hard to believe it's here. I know I speak for the many who have been involved in expressing relief that the building is nearly complete.
The architecture of the new building is distinctive, but purposeful. Our architects designed a building that is intended to reflect the beauty of the One we worship using wood surfaces and natural lighting. The cupola draws the attention heavenward, to remind us that worship is about Him and not us. The commons area includes room for conversation and coffee, in order to build community. All of these features are intentional.
But the most important feature is the empty seats. We've more than doubled our space in order to make room for newcomers; not because people need to meet us, but because they need to meet the God whom we worship. My hope and prayer is that the church family will grow by new births, as more come to know the Savior who gave His life for us.
Watching my families, at home and at church, grow has given me a new appreciation of what God can do. Each new birth is a miracle. What a great privilege to see Him work as we watch His family grow.
Next week is the first Sunday in the new worship center. After over four years of planning and labor, it is hard to believe it's here. I know I speak for the many who have been involved in expressing relief that the building is nearly complete.
The architecture of the new building is distinctive, but purposeful. Our architects designed a building that is intended to reflect the beauty of the One we worship using wood surfaces and natural lighting. The cupola draws the attention heavenward, to remind us that worship is about Him and not us. The commons area includes room for conversation and coffee, in order to build community. All of these features are intentional.
But the most important feature is the empty seats. We've more than doubled our space in order to make room for newcomers; not because people need to meet us, but because they need to meet the God whom we worship. My hope and prayer is that the church family will grow by new births, as more come to know the Savior who gave His life for us.
Watching my families, at home and at church, grow has given me a new appreciation of what God can do. Each new birth is a miracle. What a great privilege to see Him work as we watch His family grow.
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