It’s in Christ that we find out who we are and what we are living for. Long before we first heard of Christ and got our hopes up, he had his eye on us, had designs on us for glorious living, part of the overall purpose he is working out in everything and everyone.
Ephesians 1:11
We are all destined for something. For some of us it is as clear as daylight, for others its been more of a struggle. But in the end, we all have a purpose. A reason for living. And this specific purpose has been designed by God specifically and uniquely for each one of us. Even if you feel a bit lost and without a purpose, know that God has planned something special for you and that you have been busy with your purpose since the day you were born.
For Francois Stone (my pastor), his purpose started to take shape in an image of a church. But, not the usual type of church, but rather something new. ( A tent in the middle of a farm had a sense of madness connected to it, but we went along with it). Consumed by this picture in his head, thoughts, words and heart, he took a leap of faith 3 years ago, courageously bringing this picture into reality.
Today his picture has a name and a community, growing gracefully in the presence of God. I asked him to write something about our church, iConnect, and would love to share it with you:
"Our name says a lot about who we are: iConnect …with God, myself, my purpose, my family and other people. This is so simple, but we believe that this, in a way, sums up the reason for us being here on earth – to connect with our Creator, our purpose… other people.
Another one of our sayings is: Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication! We don’t need a multi – million auditorium to get together in worship. We use a tent, but it is so beautiful, situated just out of town in a eucalyptus forest. Everything speaks of simplicity, but at the same time of sophistication. We don’t even try to be “smart” in our teachings, seating and worship, but people find a place where they experience something that money can’t buy – a relationship.
And that is exactly how Jesus described our connection with the Father, in the simple, but deep image of a father and a child. And we all need to be in such a simple, personal relationship with Him. Even if people are not even aware of it. There is a holy hunger in every living human being— a hunger from the Father with Father"
My very first song I sang at the very first service of iConnect is the Afrikaans version of Amazing Grace. Yes, I know. I believe God is a bit of a show off! Planning that song so frikin perfectly.
Whats your image? Your picture? The one thing that makes your heart tumble, makes your words come out 10 at a time, the one thing that you literally have no doubt about. The one thing that keeps you awake at night, and makes you dream in the day?
Remember:God's grace is upon you.
Take that step.
Be courageous.
