....and another try at church

The house is not big as seen from the road, but parking is easy and it seems a safe area. We walk up the driveway and ring the bell. A young boy answers and hot on his heels a 30+ year old welcomes us. 'Not been before?' We are assured we will soon feel at home. There is the noise of laughter from a large room just off the hallway. We are greeted by about 20 people, all very relaxed and sitting around the room - on seats, stools and even on the floor. A couple have guitars. Room is made for us and people around the room tell us their names and welcome us again. We respond by introducing ourselves. They seem to approve! Every age group is in the room and there seems to be, though predominantly white, a mix of nationalities.

One of the guitarists starts to play and suggests we sing some songs. For the next 20 minutes we sing songs suggested by the people there. One or two give a reason why they have requested their song, which is usually because it has been on their minds that week and has blessed them is some way. All the songs are Jesus-centred. Then a few folk pray - everyone enthusiastically commends the prayer to God with loud 'amens'. All the songs are praise and thanksgiving. There are a couple of relevant Bible readings. Then there are some stories of how God has blessed and provided that week. It seems there has been some cafe evangelism happening and there have been some contacts made. Prayer is made on their behalf and one of the men speaks in an unknown tongue which is interpreted - it is an offering of praise to God who is described as a God of 'opportunity' - something I had not considered before.

Then for about 25 minutes one of the men teaches from the scriptures on The Lord's Prayer - it would seem there is a series going on, and this week it's about forgiveness. Interesting and all use Bibles and when they are not sure about something, interrupt for an explanation. Aprayer at the end and then a lady brings a prophetic word regarding the need to take the next step in our walk with God....quite thoughtprovoking.

There is then a prayer for a family who has a virus and are not there today. Someone responds by offering an opportunity of taking a food-parcel to them....most promise a contribution. There is then an offering basket passed around - and someone says they are sending £500 to a church in Malawi with which they have a contact.

Two hours have passed....we stand and say the blessing together....and then food! In the next room is a table laden with goodies! We are encouraged to eat and drink. When we are satisfied a bottleof wine in open and a loaf of bread (tasting a bit strange - apparently it's unleavend) each drinks and eats and prayer is again made giving thanks to God.

We take our leave - we have been there for over three hours and the time has passed quickly.....we get back in the car and make our way thoughtfully home.

It was my wife (always the source of wisdom) who commented that it seemed like we had been in the presence of Jesus. There was such liberty, joy and spontenaity.....church?


What do you think?