Today we participated in one of the most meaningful aspects of the Christian walk. That of the observance of the Lord's Supper. When a church body comes together for this special time it has the potential to move hearts and change lives. Today that occured and we may never know the full extent of what happened. But it was easy to see and hear that God moved.
Aspen Park we must stay focused on the prize and let God do the rest. Stay the course, run the race and in the end no matter what God wins. As christians that means we win. Enjoy the victory while we live the life and encounter the struggles.
Pray that we will all stay on task and lead others to the Christ we know and love.
Sunday, June 12, 2005
Monday, June 06, 2005
An Unbelievable Day
As I look back to what God did yesterday some things have come to mind. Just today I talked with one of our leaders and it reminded me why God has brought me to this place at this time. He has stocked this church full of finely tuned race horses ready to run. But as with any stable working together we must all follow the trainer. It is my responsibility to discern from God what we need to do and convey that to all of you. As I shared this today and read the heart of a worshipper I also felt so unworthy to be leading. This comes from my burning desire to work with and accomodate all to use their talents for God. There are times though that it is tough to hold back some of my own desires and styles of worship for the good of the church. But I also know that Aspen Park is a church that loves and supports based on heart and not just head knowledge.
So please accept my shortcomings at times as a real heart for God and ministering to all of His children. At the same time we must continue this transition to the next step God has for us. If you were to ask me what that is at this time I would have to say "I'm not sure but God will show me in His time". My personal prayer life right now shows me that the move to a new Worship Center is a positive part of the transition but at the same time it is a scarey move for some. It is also an exciting move while at the same time will cause distress in some. But the real issue is not what I want or you want but rather what does God want.
In the past 2 or 3 months we have had conservative services, contemporary services. We have sung Hillsongs music, classical music, 50's music and southern gospel. We have had solos, duets, praise team, youth praise team, children's choir, worship choir, congregational singing, instrumental pieces, etc. etc. - Do you see where I am going?
It is hard when we are so multi-talented to put a finger on who we are or what we do. But Aspen Park I see that as a major strength. Our strength is in our continuing growth to a diverse mindset. Another major strength is the diverse group of musicians both vocally and instrumentally that God has amassed in this place. When I was asked over 6 years ago by the Aspen Park search committee did I want a band or orchestra I said both. When asked if I saw this church having a choir or praise team I said both. My response then and still now is "Why can't we allow God to use all those that He brings in whatever strengths and gifts He gives them." Today I was reminded by a loving brother the passion he feels to the music and gifts God gave him and even though I never have had all the answers I know my heart and my brothers heart and God will contue to find us faithful in what He has given us to do.
So in closing, get ready Aspen Park we are about to see some changes under God's direction. What are those - I don't know. But if we aren't growing we are dying. And part of growth is change. So hold on and just watch what God does.
I Love All Of You,
Bro. Tom
So please accept my shortcomings at times as a real heart for God and ministering to all of His children. At the same time we must continue this transition to the next step God has for us. If you were to ask me what that is at this time I would have to say "I'm not sure but God will show me in His time". My personal prayer life right now shows me that the move to a new Worship Center is a positive part of the transition but at the same time it is a scarey move for some. It is also an exciting move while at the same time will cause distress in some. But the real issue is not what I want or you want but rather what does God want.
In the past 2 or 3 months we have had conservative services, contemporary services. We have sung Hillsongs music, classical music, 50's music and southern gospel. We have had solos, duets, praise team, youth praise team, children's choir, worship choir, congregational singing, instrumental pieces, etc. etc. - Do you see where I am going?
It is hard when we are so multi-talented to put a finger on who we are or what we do. But Aspen Park I see that as a major strength. Our strength is in our continuing growth to a diverse mindset. Another major strength is the diverse group of musicians both vocally and instrumentally that God has amassed in this place. When I was asked over 6 years ago by the Aspen Park search committee did I want a band or orchestra I said both. When asked if I saw this church having a choir or praise team I said both. My response then and still now is "Why can't we allow God to use all those that He brings in whatever strengths and gifts He gives them." Today I was reminded by a loving brother the passion he feels to the music and gifts God gave him and even though I never have had all the answers I know my heart and my brothers heart and God will contue to find us faithful in what He has given us to do.
So in closing, get ready Aspen Park we are about to see some changes under God's direction. What are those - I don't know. But if we aren't growing we are dying. And part of growth is change. So hold on and just watch what God does.
I Love All Of You,
Bro. Tom
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