Submitted by Pastor Bill Hargis, Rock Port and Watson United Methodist Churches

The number one, least favorite quote I have ever heard is, “God loves you the way you are, He doesn’t want you to change a thing.” For those disillusioned few who spread this garbage, I would like you to explain all the stories in the Bible about changed lives. The disciples, Zacchaeus, Nicodemus, Paul, the Samaritan woman at the well, just to name a few. God turned these peoples’ lives upside down. Of course God intended for us to change, why else would He send His son, Jesus to this earth? 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “So if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation: everything old has passed away; see, everything has become new!”

At our Rock Port community worship service on April 28, there was music, and then McKale Burke shared his story. Another story of how God changed a life. And I believe we also witnessed the beginning of other lives being changed. If you missed this service, I am truly sorry!

There was music, there was testimony. In a normally conservative community, I was thrilled to see AND HEAR people worshipping and praising our God. The Bible says make a joyful noise. Folks, there was definitely joyful noise on that day. There was a call to prayer which saw several people coming forward, as well as others meeting in the aisles and praying over each other. After the service, which I believe passed the one hour mark, the fellowship continued with a potluck dinner.

I usually have plenty to say, but I have found words difficult this week, when I try to describe this service. I think a song, written by Lanny Wolfe, probably best describes this service: “Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place. I can feel His mighty power and His grace. I can hear the brush of angels’ wings; I see glory on each face. Surely the presence of the Lord is in this place.”

Don’t ever think God doesn’t change lives. I can say personally, thank God He does. I believe the revival is on its way, folks. “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give you. Do not let your hearts be troubled, and do not let them be afraid.” – John 14:27

Remember, I love you all, and there’s nothing you can do about it.