On today, I visited my first mega-church... and it was nothing like I expected for it to be. I entered the huge facility expecting to feel very out of place and alone. However, it was the complete opposite. I was immediately greeted by the gentleman that I sat beside. He asked if it was my first time attending, and assured me that I'd really enjoy myself.
He wasn't joking! I don't recall ever being in a church where absolutely everyone was there because they wanted to be; I can't remember ever attending a church where everyone served in their respective role with a noticeable sense of dignity and honor. It was truly amazing to experience.
The most important thing that I gathered from the service, outside of the delicious white chocolate mocha that I purchased at the café, was the message that the pastor (whom we viewed on a projector screen) brought. His message had four points:
1. Know God.
The first step to being productive individuals within the body of Christ is to know our God. When we say "know," we actually mean to know Him - not know of Him. To know Him means to have a relationship with Him.
2. Find freedom.
All of us have experienced some things that have left permanent scars on us, whether literally or figuratively. The pastor informed us that we must find freedom in God. Forgive those who have done wrong toward us, and let it go. We can't reach our fullest potential in God if we're still holding onto baggage from our past.
3. Discover purpose.
We were all placed on this earth for a reason. However, the very reason that we were blessed to live here is not always freely revealed to us. Therefore, we must discover our purpose. We must use every talent that we have while praying for God to reveal to us what our purpose is. Everyone has one... everyone.
4. Make a difference.
This point was probably my most favorite. The pastor said something that really stuck with me. He said, "you're not here for survival; you're here for significance." We're not here to work and pay bills. We're here to make a difference in someone else's life. We're here to leave our mark on the world. Use your purpose to make a difference in this world.
I really enjoyed myself at this church. I can't wait until next Sunday! I'll definitely be attending again, arriving earlier this time so that I can secure a seat closer to the front.
