As someone who struggles to pay attention and listen right through a sermon, and I mean, really listen, Michael Kelly was an absolute God send. The preacher from Mt Rubidoux SDA Church came to share with us at Converge in Stuarts Point this February and brought such lively energy with captivating messages that went so much further than just skin deep in wisdom.
As Christians, we can never be reminded too often of the power of when we gather in His name, and that’s exactly what Converge is. Young adults gathering in His name, the perfect opportunity to remind us of his power and glory and bring us closer with people who feel the same.
For those who haven’t quite made it to that level of certainty and sacrifice with God, it’s such a special way to encounter him, and I pray that the way they feel when they encounter him at Converge can continue on into their everyday life. I pray that for everyone, both those fresh into the Christianity scene and those who have been here for a while that your passion for God never dies, and if it starts to, that you will pursue opportunities to ignite that spark again and bring you back to where it all began.
It was so encouraging to see people surrendering their insecurities, problems, fears and doubts to Jesus every night as they were convicted and changed by the power of our awesome God. Converge was refreshing. Refreshing spiritually, emotionally, and socially. I come away feeling excited for the next Converge and I’m ready to see God amaze me once again in the way He reveals Himself through worship and His chosen people preaching His word.
For those who weren’t at Converge, or for those, who like me have a horrible memory. Here are some of the compelling points Michael touched on that I can’t help but share:
- I don’t care what you think the ‘correct’ style of worship is. Hands up, hands by your side, knees to the ground, swaying, no swaying, whatever it is, we have no place judging others on their style of worship. It’s such an easy thing for us to do though as we all come from different backgrounds. But, Michael pointed out that you have NO IDEA what God has brought them through. You have no idea what they’re praising Him for and where they’ve come from, so before you look at someone’s style of worship and judge them, remember, God works in amazing ways in our lives and the way people worship is simply an expression of that praise to God. So, let’s try our best not to shun people for praising the God we all serve.
- Remember the Sabbath day and keep it holy. REST. The sabbath should be a delight but so often we end up needing a rest on Sunday from our ‘rest’ on sabbath. So, whatever way works best for you, amongst the sometimes business of serving at church, remember to find the still and quiet in Gods embrace and rest. Rest in his arms and in the comfort that He’s got you and will never let you go. Rest in His plan for you and that He will take care of the hundreds of things racing through your mind. Rest, just rest.
- Lastly, Jesus wants you just as you are. This doesn’t mean you can be stubborn, stay that way and not let Him work through you and change you for the better, but it does mean that, by the grace of God, wherever you are in your life right now, He wants you! Religion says change and then you can join the church. Jesus says join me as you are, and then I’ll change you. Simply put, just come as you are.
Converge as always was an incredible experience which makes me excited for next year and how God will work. I can’t wait to see you all there!
WRITER: Kerrilea Stanton, attends Lilydale Church.