I believe the Lord would bring about revival among His people, if we were but willing. I believe we will experience newness in Christ if we will allow His Spirit to penetrate our routines...in and out of church. I believe we could know something of the unity Christ prayed for among His body, if we would start being the church, and stop just attending church.

While in Peru this summer, many of our students were moved by the heart of God to begin new ministries upon their return home. Several were led to make Jesus THE priority in their schools and communities. This is not a small task, and requires significant focus and follow through.

Upon return, a couple of students from the Oklahoma City area began trying to follow His leading. I have spoken of them before. They began meeting nightly in a barn with others who would come and take part. The numbers grew. Provisions were made to help equip the building.
Beyond the meetings they have begun to put their faith into action.

One of our staff went there this past weekend to spend some time with them. He went to take part in what they were doing, not lead them to do things they weren't. What he found was fellowship, joy, prayer and in general, focus on Jesus. They sought to do what He did. This was not something put on by those who knew he was coming.

Their enthusiasm for what the Lord has led them to do, was instrumental in drawing our staff person there. A dozen or so students gathered on Saturday. They went to the store and bought groceries with their combined resources. They took those supplies and began to make sandwiches. When all were completed they headed out.

They headed downtown to the areas the homeless gather. They split into two groups (led by students from the Peru and Ecuador teams from the summer). They began to invest in those who have nothing. They heard stories that broke their hearts. They shared their faith. They loved on people, the way Jesus taught.

They had incredible encounters. This was not their first visit here. It will not be their last.

This group of students do not expect anything for their efforts. They are simply trying to live as the Word of God speaks. They are being the church.

On a day when most people are shopping, playing sports, involved in leisure activities, working in the yard or even resting, these students are taking Jesus to those in need. There is nothing wrong with any of these activities. There is something amiss when they become our busyness that does not allow us to serve our Savior.

Attend church. That is a good thing. While you are there, learn to be the church, that is what Christ taught.

dad