I awoke at 6:30AM, got myself ready, gathered some things and headed for the movie theater. Upon arriving the trailer was already there, and and a group of committed men and me set up for our morning worship experience. After setting up I made a quick run to Starbucks and then headed for the pastor's study (aka "the party room.") As I sat in the party room going through my sermon I began to watch as droves of families entered the theater for...Toy Story 3, lining up at 9:00AM.
As I watched these families buy their popcorn and head into the four theaters showing this film, I began to pray that one day droves of families would enter the theater for church and not the latest 3D kids movie. I wanted to tell these parents, these dads on father's day, that Jesus has something better to offer their kids than does Buzz Lightyear.
After this I walked across the building to the theater our church meets in, greeting folks from our congregation along the way. We had a great service! The band was rocking, communion was served, our superintendent officially installed Bekki and I as Lead Pastor, anointed and prayed for us. I preached my heart out, challenging and encouraging our dads. We finished the service with a sweet little video from our kids that blessed the dads.
Following the service people congratulated, embraced, and affirmed me. Folks gathered and talked, we tore down, packed the trailer back up, and we were out of the theater parking lot by noon. In many ways, it was church like any other Sunday, but in many ways it was church unlike any other Sunday for me. It was my first Sunday as a Lead Pastor, and I was blessed beyond measure. I was reminded that 13 years ago God called me into ministry and I have given my life to it ever since. I came home and took a much needed nap, but with a peace that passes understanding having been used by God to bring good news all throughout the weekend.
Every now and then I stop and reflect and say to myself, "I can't believe I get to live this life." Today was one of those days.
