The Day of Pentecost, The Game Changer
Acts 2:1-13
This past weekend, several of our shepherds, along with Pastor Daniel, attended the North American Shepherds Conference hosted by New Life Fellowship in Houston. The conference gathers shepherds from across North America to be refreshed and equipped to better serve their sheep. As they returned, several shared what God had taught them.
One shepherd shared how life's difficulties had slowly led them to rely more on themselves than on God. Through the conference, God revealed this self-reliance, leading them to repentance and a renewed commitment to seek Him intentionally each day. Truly, God is good all the time. And all the time, God is good.
Another shepherd reflected on questions they had about why certain parts of house church are done and whether the format should be adjusted to make VIPs feel more comfortable. Through the conference, they realized that every aspect of house church is intentionally rooted in Scripture and serves a purpose. They also learned that changing the experience to avoid discomfort can unintentionally prevent VIPs from encountering the very things God uses to make us whole. Ultimately, it is not our methods that transform people, but God Himself (1 Corinthians 3:6). Our role is to faithfully trust His process.
Pastor Daniel shared how meaningful it was to be surrounded by believers from across the country who wholeheartedly desired to serve God. This reminded him that people often come to house church not merely for the gathering itself, but because of the people who love and follow Christ.
He also shared a personal story about accidentally leaving his luggage behind while excitedly riding in another pastor's new car. Reflecting on this, he said that when we realize we've forgotten something, we should ask whether it is worth going back for. Spiritually, there are things we should gladly leave behind—fear, anxiety, and worldly desires. But we must never lose what truly matters: our trust, our hope, or even Jesus Himself. As we continue following Christ, we should regularly ask ourselves: Have we stayed close to Jesus, or have we somehow lost sight of Him along the way?
Pastor Daniel also shared a potential opportunity that may lie ahead for our church. This opportunity was brought up by a fellow pastor, and Pastor Daniel shared that he believes God can speak to us through those who serve him. Although this opportunity seems beyond our ability, if it is truly from God, who are we to refuse? As one body, we should seek the Lord together in prayer, discerning the Holy Spirit's leading so that we may move according to God's will.
Pastor Daniel concluded by expressing his hope that every shepherd, and ultimately everyone in ANF, would one day experience what was present at the conference. Not because of the worship, testimonies, or teaching, but because the Holy Spirit was tangibly at work among people who had made God their King. May we likewise experience the kingdom of God here and now by making God our King and Jesus our everything.
Reflection Questions:
What is one thing God may be asking you to leave behind, and one thing you need to hold onto more tightly, as you continue following Jesus?
Who first helped you experience God's love? How can you become that kind of person for someone else?
Pastor Daniel shared that the conference felt like a glimpse of the Kingdom because everyone had God as their King. What do you think that means?
