I’m sorry.  I just can’t resist the opportunity to talk about this.  I had planned to on Saturday but decided to wait.

On Sunday, I decided I wasn’t going to bring up this subject as this was what my pastor talked about.  So if you weren’t there or don’t live in town then you ought to go to www.oakleafchurch.com Michael did an awesome job!! He is in the midst of a series entitled “Dominate” and yesterday was the 2nd in the series.

I was in town on Saturday when I ran in to someone I don’t see very often.  A few minutes later someone else walked up that knew the person I was talking with.  I didn’t know this person and they had no idea that I go to Oakleaf.  But they mentioned that their family is looking for a new church and that they had been going to Oakleaf.  When asked, “Why are you looking for somewhere else to go?” They replied, “We just aren’t being fed.”

I once worked at a church and we made no apologies for telling people, “This church may not be for you.”  We did that in a way that was loving and encouraging. You know what?  That is totally fine.  There are some churches that probably wouldn’t want me there because I would probably want to change what they are doing.  That’s why I don’t go there.  (I don’t talk bad of them either) But please if you think this church or that church is not for you and you decide to tell someone that you are leaving… remember who you are talking about is the body of Christ. 

Hey if you need something else – well, then you need something else.  It just may not be the churches fault. Listen, there are no perfect churches.  You know why?  Because they are made up of imperfect people. 

God has raised up a church here in Cartersville that really wants to do a few things with such excellence and focus!!  A community focused church.  A church that looks for every opportunity to give to the community.  A church built on serving others. Oakleaf really wants to, “Help people move from where they are to where God wants them to be.” 

I’m proud to say that I go to “The Leaf”.  When in the community I am focused on reaching the community.  When I am at church I am focused on worshipping God and yes I love being challenged each time I walk in the door – and I am.  I don’t have to be super-wowed to know that I’ve “been to church.”  Simple Truth presented in a simple manner can make a huge impact on a church and the community.  So wherever you live and worship make the most of every opportunity given to you and serve God with great passion. 

Matthew 28:18-20, “Jesus, undeterred, went right ahead and gave his charge:  ‘God  authorized and commanded me to commission you: Go out and train everyone you meet, far and near, in this way of life, marking them by baptism in the threefold name:  Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.  Then instruct them in the practice of all I have commanded you.  I’ll be with you as you do this, day after day, right up to the end of the age.'” (The Message).