Pentecost in the Park

It is a real joy to see our children come to a place in life where the things of God take on a greater significance than in years gone by.   As parents, we only want what is best for our children.   And because of past failures in our own lives, we know that unless they put Christ first, direction and stability will not be theirs to enjoy.

Last weekend, my wife and I enjoyed seeing one of our daughters, along with her husband, join a local church in the town where they live.  We went up on a very rainy Sunday, not quite knowing what to expect.  My daughter had told us "We're celebrating 'Pentecost in the Park', Dad!  We will be accepted into the church membership too."  Well, the rain ended the "park" part of the celebration, but there was ALOT of celebrating  in the church gym !  There was so much excitement in the air as church folk filled the gym, sitting on fold-up chairs.  Most everyone wore red in celebration of the birthday of the church.  Once the music started, there was no holding back.  We began singing and clapping to the beat of the music.  I took note of everything: the prayers, the scripture readings, the sermon – judging whether my daughter and her little family made a good decision by joining this particular church.  I began to feel at ease.  She had previously told me, "Dad, in our orientation classes, we were told that they will only teach what comes from the Bible."  That was a good sign.  And now, I had the opportunity to worship with her, take communion with her, and see for myself what kind of church she has aligned herself with.  You can probably discern that she joined a different denomination from what she knew as a child.  I must say, I'm quite partial to the Baptist denomination.  But I know we don't hold a monopoly on God, or heaven.   I pray that she and her husband, and their precious little girl (my granddaughter) will develop spiritually.  And I look forward to my granddaughter's own baptism there.   

Last Sunday was truly special.  And I look forward to many wonderful Sundays!  But you know, Sundays are just a taste of the eternal Sunday where we will celebrate with our Lord forever!