Stretching the Church

This past weekend marked a major milestone in the life of the America Bless God Campaign. It was over seven years ago that I first had a vision for the re-evangelization of the United States. This past weekend that vision became a reality.

Four churches in Rockdale, the Singles Ministry / Brazilian Mission Team from Great Baptist Church in Austin, and the America Bless God Campaign teamed up to bring evangelism and discipleship to Rockdale. On Friday night, folks attended the basketball team to support the home team. NFL Pro and International PowerTeam member, Keith Davis was on hand.

Saturday morning teams of two or three were sent out to knock on doors in Rockdale. The teams were telling folks about the PowerRally, praying/ministering to people, and sharing the Gospel of Christ. Many great testimonies were heard after the morning visits.

On Saturday evening, approximately 150 people gathered in the stands of the local Junior High gym to see Keith Davis and Joe Reed. They heard the gospel Celebration Choir from Great Hills and Randy Stripling. The gospel was preached in its simplicity and power. Cheers for Jesus were heard throughout the nights, and out of that small crowd, over 24 decisions for Christ were made. The power of the gospel is amazing. And the local churches are ready to disciple those that made decisions. Meadowbrook has been training with the First Steps material.

As I reflect on the weekend I see churches that were stretched into the realm were Jesus calls us to operate. While the Brazilian missions team from Austin is familiar and great at missions in Brazil, yet Rockdale is more like evangelizing in your own backyard. The local Rockdale pastors saw a genuine pursuit of the Great Commission. The local Rockdale church members engaged in something that is not common, and something that can be scary to do in your own home town.

I am so grateful for pastors Rick Hertless and Tim Moore. I am also grateful for Meadowbrook Baptist, Rockdale Christian, St. John's UMC and First Christian Church; all of Rockdale. It was inspiring to see some many eager to engage the community and simply amazing to see such a large percentage of the PowerRally crowd make a decision.

For me this is the beginning of the fulfillment of a prayer and a vision God placed in my heart seven years ago. The wonders of His working are mysterious and beautiful. People are very interested in pursuing simple efforts for the future. Let us be faithful in doing as He has commanded.

God Save the U.S.A.