15 Changed People

I type this sitting on a deck overlooking an astonishing view of the Great Smoky Mountains. I hear crickets. I have seen a few eagles soaring through the skies above the gorgeous hills below. But they all pale in comparison to what I’ve seen of Jesus this week. I have been unplugged from my computer as I’ve had the distinct privilege of leading the Ministry Staff of my church in a few days of pursuing God and listening for His voice. Well, the days didn’t simply come and go. Jesus met with us in such an unmistakable manner…we heard Him, we understood His heart, we got clear on His love for us, and we are absolutely changed.

I once had a friend ask, “What if I give my life to Jesus and nothing happens?” I will tell you (coming off this great retreat) what I told him (minutes before He received Jesus as His own):

IT’S IMPOSSIBLE…WHEN WE ENCOUNTER CHRIST THINGS ALWAYS HAPPEN!

Do you get my point? All through the Bible we see people encountering Jesus…and something always happens. No one comes face to face with the Son of God and remains unaffected. Whether it is a man’s sight being restored or a widow being comforted…a religious person getting offended or a fisherman getting a second chance…a dead man being raised to life or a hypocrite being found out…something always happens.

So this week, 15 Pastors and Ministry Directors met Jesus in very intimate, precise, needed ways…and we are all changed forever. Our minds were stretched, our hearts enlarged, our wounds healed, our understanding enlightened, our love for others deepened, our devotion to Jesus and awe of God profoundly rooted in brand new ways. Fifteen people…11 men and 4 women…filled, morphed, and a little speechless.

Soon, after I let what we saw and were exposed to settle into my heart a bit more…I will try to convey some of what the Lord showed us. In the mean time, let me ask you something: When was the last time you were changed? Can you recall the last time you encountered Jesus? Here’s a hint…if you really met with Christ…you left different than you came in. It is astonishing how His love and power have the ability to accomplish such profound wrecking and rebuilding in a willing person’s life.  Makes you wanna sing to God just a little bit…doesn’t it?