Another - Something Special!

In this entry I want to focus on what went on during our 3rd Sunday night! I had spent a bit of time with Thomas and Shaun challenging them to be involved with the lesson for Sunday night. When we went through the plan for the lesson they both decided to share the reading of Psalm 40:1-4. Thomas would take the first two verses and Shaun would take the second two. Each of them prepared something to say in relation to their section of the Psalm.

We had our customary cup of tea and fellowship before the meeting. It was especially good to see Donald and Ethan come along! I must admit I was quietly delighted to see them come in because I knew this would be a lesson that would make an impression on Donald's heart. I remember telling Thomas and Shaun, before the meeting that even though I preached for 30 minutes and they for only 2 or 3, I would guarantee the audience will remember their contribution far more that mine! John Campbell led the singing and welcomed everyone and the whole time before the lesson I was feeling quite nervous, but not for myself - it was for my two young companions!

At the beginning we shared some photo's of the Chilean Miners rescue and talked about how the events being covered on the news had impacted us. We then talked about the parallel between the rescue mission and the plan of salvation. There were some great points expressed and one moment I loved. Betty Hepburn, a faithful Christian for more than 60 years and a huge encourager made a comment about her getting on her knees to thank God for the deliverance of these miners on the other side of the world. Betty also made an amazing declaration of faith when she courageously shared about her choice all those years ago to accept Christ and how her life has been so rich as a result - when Betty speaks there is instant RESPECT! Her words touched everyone there because everyone has been touched by Betty's life for the good.

Well, after all that we watched a clip of footage from the rescue mission and focused on what the miners said on their T-shirts, their willingness to give God all the honour and glory for sustaining them throughout the 69 days and for their deliverance! It was now time for Thomas and Shaun to share some comments on Psalm 40 in respect of their own lives. Thomas spoke of his relating to the Psalm and how his life was once dark and lost, but since his decision to become a Christian things have turned around in his life. Shaun spoke of his new found ability to put his trust in the church and in God as a result of the godly influence he has found in Christian's since coming in contact with us. I was truly blown away! I struggled to get myself engaged in the conclusion of the lesson, but found strength from knowing that we had seen 1st hand the evidence of faith and the work of the Spirit in these two young men! At the conclusion of the lesson I asked the question, "Why on earth would you not want to be rescued from the filth and darkness of the pit?

It was obvious that we had been a part of something good! Everyone stayed for a good while after and expressed their thanks for the lesson and gave much encouragement to Thomas and Shaun!

Between this entry and the one before I can only give thanks to our Father for the inexpressible riches that are ours, because we are His!