Yesterday was a day of powerful worship, the obvious presence of the Holy Spirit, many who made a commitment to get ready for the power of God in their lives and a day with very low attendance. As for my musings …

-Began a new sermon series yesterday entitled “Powered by God”. This will be a theme and focus for us this year.

-This new sermon series is born out of my personal frustration with the lack of power in my life and the life of my churches. As I read scripture I see the results of God’s power and I see the promises of God’s power and I know that these promises are still true. I want God’s power to be regularly evidenced in my life and the life of my churches. I am excited for this series, especially after seeing so many people respond that they want this in their life and are willing to get ready to receive it.

-The weather people had predicted a major ice storm for our area all weekend. It never came. But evidently many people believed the forecasts and did not step outside to see that it never arrived. Attendance was very low at my 10:30 church and it was down at my 9:00 church.

-There was such a sweet and powerful spirit in our worship services yesterday. There was a brief time of spontaneous praise in each of my churches. There were many tears of joy during the music. The prayer time was wonderful and people were very engaged during the sermon.

-Immediately after the last worship service my wife and I headed to a hospital about 40 minutes away to visit someone who has not been doing well. Had the situation, love being able to minister.

-Mondays are often difficult for pastors. After all the preparation for Sunday and the emotional energy spent on a Sunday there is an expected let down. Some Mondays are not so bad, and some just seem to beat you up. This Monday is the latter. But I have enough experience to know what it is and that this too shall pass.

-I began reading a book recently that is fascinating. It is not written with pastors or churches in mind. It is a book about communication. The tagline of the book is “It’s not what you say, it’s what people hear”. As a pastor, I have many conversations throughout the year with people who heard something very different than what I said. The clearer I can preach, and communicate in general, the more impactful my ministry and life can become. I am always seeking ways to communicate better.

-I continue to be amazed at how much prayer changes things. As I give myself more and more to specific and sincere prayer God keeps showing up in ways I didn’t imagine. Prayer changes things, especially the one who prays.

-Excited about the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of some fathers. Got confirmation today about something that has been in the works for months. Will share more as the journey begins. But you can go ahead and get excited, I am.

-Praying a lot for many pastors I know. With some I know what they are facing, with some others I don’t know what they are facing but God has placed them on my heart.

-This afternoon I got more confirmation that God is up to something special in our community. Awesome!!!

Here’s hoping that you sense God’s presence in your life.

Dennis