Water Walking

There is a phrase (and title of an excellent book) which says, "If you want to walk on the water, you've got to get out of the boat." Alluding to Peter stepping out of his storm-battered boat and making it across a few waves to Jesus' outstretched hand, this is an analogy for all of us seeking to grow, stretch and challenge our faith today. See Matthew 14:29 for more details.

Yesterday's Guest Service was full of people 'getting out of the boat and walking on the water'. Nathan stepped up to the mike and, for the first time, led worship without the usual youth band suspects. At one point, Nathan, Samuel and Esther were all playing in the band at the same time - a truly family affair.

Becca, Mark, Claire and Stevie all did a 5-minute 'mini preach' responding to the question, "Does God heal today?" It was truly miraculous how God used these four water-walkers to share four totally different but linked responses to this important question. They covered faith, the character of God, the biblical basis for healing, the practical outworking of this and what to do with the practical challenges that may accompany it. The Holy Spirit put all this together as I'd not told any of them what to say and the final outcome was a superb 20-minute spiritually-inspired synopsis on this hot topic.

We also enjoyed Jackie's outstanding Gospel preach. God had challenged her to 'step out of the boat' at the start of the week and within 24 hours she'd received 'The Call' asking her to preach on Sunday. Be careful what you pray for! Having never preached in a BCC Sunday Meeting before, this was always going to be a big ask but God worked in a very deep way and the result was full of life, clear and an excellent example for others (not just the Ladies) of how it should be done. Don't tell me God does not want women preaching and teaching in the Church.

Finally, our meeting was laced with the Christmas-flavoured vocal talents of Boney M - playing Mary's Boy Child at the start of the Service was another BCC first...any requests for next week?!