Making Appeals

You have to love technology. And the sovereign hand of God when the responds appropriately to challenging circumstances.

Friends of mine, who happen to be great pastors are experiencing phenomenal growth in their current ministry. So much so, they are preparing for plans  on their third building. However, it didn't fit within current zoning laws with the city.

Tuesday night, I watched, via the city council webcam, as the body of Christ came together to show their support and appeal the decision of the local politic that rezoning this latest building purchase made sense.

For the church. For the good of the community. For the needs of the city. Plus it was the best use of a building that had been vacant for years and was proving to be difficult to get occupied under current standards and procedures. The church won the appeal, and God working the miraculous aside, I am confident it was largely in part because of the leadership team of the church and how the body of Christ responded to the decisions made by local governance, even when they disagreed.

It reminded me of a similar situation our church went through with our building program. Likewise, it could have been a huge battle. But the situation was handled with grace and love, not out of spite or revenge, much like Tuesday night. In similar manner, God worked the miraculous for our church, in a different direction and our church and community has been better with that outcome. Just as I am sure, my friends will see in their community.

Pray this #deaconThursday, for the decisions that churches face as they deal with local and state governing bodies and legal issues. May the grace and love of God permeate conversations and discussions amidst difficult and complex circumstances. May understanding and patience be the undercurrent throughout the process. Pray hearts and lives would be challenged and changed as communities witness the strength of the body of Christ handle frustrating circumstances with kindness. Pray for local leaders; that they to would bring open minds and understanding hearts to the table. Pray the favor of God and His sovereign will to be experienced in all matters; that regardless of the outcomes, He would be glorified and receive all praise.

May the body of Christ and the governing bodies of the state work together, for the glory of God and the betterment of its people. For the cause of Jesus Christ. Communities changed. One decision, with the favor and blessing of Almighty God.

-PNC

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