Monday, December 27, 2010

December 27: Ordinary Joy

Our most profound joy is often experienced during ordinary moments. What was one of your most joyful ordinary moments this year?
as i was trying to think through all the moments this year, there is one moment in particular that fits. in september i journeyed over to uganda to spend 2 of the most precious weeks with babies. but prior to getting on the plane to head east, i met up with my team in atlanta, ga a few days before. i had the privilege to go to passion city church the sunday before we left. as we concluded our worship through songs, pastor louie giglio began telling the entire congregation about this team that is going over to uganda in 2 days. he began sharing about watoto ministry and all that God is doing through it. then he began sharing how God brought this team together from every phase of life. then he proceeded to ask the congregation to diligently pray over these women as they are gone. i was already moved by others praying for me. especially people i have never met. louie asked us to stand up and throughout the building we were spread out representing varies groups of people. and instead of having people verbally pray out loud, he said i want you to express your willingness and excitement for this team and your commitment to pray for them by clapping. by giving praise to the Lord for what HE is going to do through these women. and by what He will teach us all...in a matter of seconds. the entire congregation was on their feet. clapping with all their hearts. cheering for us. it was the most overwhelming moment i have experienced. my heart was full of joy for what God was doing in the hearts of people at passion city but also for what He was going to do through us. i was completely humbled in every way by strangers giving me hugs. sharing scripture with me. encouraging me by speaking words over me.

it was a beautifully illustrated picture of the body of christ. an ordinary moment to most people but an extraordinary moment both for me and my uganda team.

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