My Leap Of Faith

A few months ago, I posted on Facebook that I had made a huge leap of faith and asked for prayers, saying I would explain all at a later time. That time is now.

Several years ago, my Brit penpal had mentioned a program called “Messy Church” that had started in the UK. It was an outreach program to draw people into a non-threatening church setting. I was greatly intrigued with the idea and thought it would be fun to try. At the time, however, I knew our current pastor would not be receptive to the idea in the slightest. So the excitement gradually faded and I forgot about it.

My friend recently mentioned it again in passing as it is something they do at her church, and once again a spark started in my mind and heart. We have a different pastor now, and I felt that this time, there might be a chance for this program. I once again looked up the website and watched a few videos on Youtube. I became more and more excited about this. I felt that the Holy Spirit was leading me to become involved with a program like this at our church. I contacted two women who would be the best ones to promote this to our pastor, because of their positions in church leadership right now. I gave them information about the program, along with several URLs that they could check out. Then came the leap: I pledged myself to help in any way possible to implement this program in our own church. I knew it might mean getting up in front of people. Maybe a LOT of people. It might take some serious time and effort on my part. It would definitely take me out of my comfort zone. I was told that this program would be discussed some time after all the Easter events.

Between moments of panic (WHAT was I thinking?!?!?!?) and excitement, I began to do some research into possible craft projects that could be incorporated into the program, since that is my area of expertise. I started to rehearse in my mind how I would present these projects. I told the two women involved that I would make some sample projects for their approval. The hope was to start drawing in people with young children, something totally lacking in our congregation right now.

Then came the day of the big meeting where the Messy Church program would be brought up.

Total rejection of the program.

I couldn’t believe it. The woman who is the head of Christian Ed at church was surprised as well. We’ve talked about it all a couple of times since, and decided to bide our time and see what takes place. For now, instead of any kind of corporate fellowship program, we will have what they’re calling Fellowship Night where we can bring games and snacks and have fun. At our own little tables with our own little cliques.

I will freely admit that I have had a lot of fun the last two Fellowship Nights. And I have gotten together with a few people that aren’t really part of my core “clique”, if indeed I have one. BUT….no kids. No young couples. The majority of the people are in their mid 60s and above. Yes, it’s fun and yes, I enjoy it. But it’s a far cry from what I thought the Holy Spirit was leading me toward.

For now, I’ve shelved all my Messy Church dreams. But this time, I won’t let them die. I will find a way to get this going. But I need to have patience and wait upon the Lord for HIS timing, not mine. I will put aside MY agenda and wait for the appropriate moment. I believe the Holy Spirit was softening my heart for a future experience, not an immediate one.

So prayers are still appreciated. Thanks for the ones that were already lifted. Praise God from whom ALL blessings flow!