August 22

I have been thinking about the Nex-Gen service yesterday. There was such a anointing on the whole thing that it is hard to narrow down my comments to one particular thing. Today however, I am struck by the sheer power of the Holy Spirit that was present. I personally think that it was our best service this summer! By that I don’t mean that it all went off without a hitch, because it didn’t. The sort of problems that we experience on Sundays were present. When I say best I mean the presence of God was present in a more tangible way and the ministry of His Kingdom went forward in a greater degree. Please don’t interpret that is a slam on anybody else, these are just the facts.

Acts 4:32–33 (NIV84) — 32 All the believers were one in heart and mind. No one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they shared everything they had. 33 With great power the apostles continued to testify to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus, and much grace was upon them all.

There was a simple unity among everyone who ministered that morning, and by ministered I mean they worked (exerted energy to accomplish a task). The speakers were in early praying and worshipping, the worship team was in early practicing, and nearly everybody was on time and ready (and excited), to minister for the Lord. They all were for one another, in unity and they had much grace among them. The power of God was in the worship, in the preaching and even in the prayer for the offering. There was a prophetic mantle on the whole service! And we haven’t even talked about the 30+ minutes a powerful ministry time!

Honor. They were honored to serve. They were honored to do their part. Sometimes we forget how honored we are to be able to serve a cup of water in the name of Jesus, take an offering, lead, teach and minister, partnering with the King of Kings. It really is quite honoring. Just think how honored you would be to throw the first pitch out in a playoff game in the major leagues. How much more to serve one another and the King of the Universe.