It’s Raining

Sunday we launched a new series, “Prelude To Pentecost,” and before I ever got to the message, the heavens opened and it began to rain.  Yes, it was raining outside, but it was raining more on the inside. The altars of the church were filled with both worshipers and an outpouring of the Spirit of God.  Talk about a prelude to Pentecost!   

God visits those who tarry.  Tarry is not a word we use often.  It means to stay longer than you expected, or to delay your leaving.  The disciples tarried for ten days after Christ ascended to heaven.  They waited for the promise of the Holy Spirit to come.  Jesus had told 500 to go and wait, and ten days later there were only 120 still tarrying.  I wonder what those ten days were like and what the disciples had to persevere through to remain.  Surely there was a mixture of emotion – doubt, fear, excitement, wonder, confusion, worry, frustration, shock, elation, joy.  Those ten days of waiting caused 380 to walk away leaving a remnant behind.

When Pentecost came, 120 remained.  They had tarried and were the first to receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit.  There is certainly a reward to tarrying and simply waiting on the Spirit of God until you are baptized with power from on High.  

This Sunday, we will come together, wait upon the Lord and worship Him together as we expect a fresh outpouring of His Spirit.  If you are hungry for a fresh move of God, if you desire to encounter and experience God…I’ve got a forecast for the weekend, and its full of rain! Jenna and I look forward to seeing you.

Also happening this Sunday evening is the launch of Grace Young Adults at 6pm in the Student Center. If you are between the ages of 18-30 and desire an authentic community that longs to see who Jesus is and all He can do in and through them, this will be a great connection point for you. You can find out more in the Church Center app or connect by texting GRACEYA to 97000 to get updates on gatherings.

Believing for revival,

Pastor Daniel Norris