back from the summit

I attended our denomination’s prayer summit held on Monday and Tuesday of last week. People from Christian Reformed Churches all over the US and Canada travelled to All Nations Church near Los Angeles, California to take part in the event. I was delighted to participate, having missed the first and second summits which were held four and three years ago, respectively.

If I had to summarize my experience of the event in a word, that word would be “hope”.  I feel hopeful that our denomination’s leaders believe that prayer must be a vital part of our shared life, going forward. When we unite to pray, we are throwing open our windows to heaven and welcoming the fresh wind of the Holy Spirit to blow in. That means that all manner of good things are possible.

We are facing some serious challenges as a denomination. When we pray, we are asking God to take the leadership over the church that is rightly His. We are entrusting ourselves to him for His guidance and protection. The Bible, and our church’s main catechism (the Heidelberg),  remind us that on our own, we are not equal to these challenges. On the other hand, there are no challenges that can ultimately stand against the power of God. 

I am praying, along with the organizers of this event, that this fresh wind of God’s Spirit will blow into every region where Christian Reformed churches are found and to each individual Christian Reformed church, as well. Imagine what might happen if each church came to God with empty hands inviting him to show His power!

I am thankful for the vital prayer ministry in Bethel. I pray that God will continue to move in our hearts and fan the flame that is burning among us to His glory. 
                                                                                                                             — Pastor Tom  

 

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