Urban Pastor LIVE!

Trying to describe what’s going on at Mars Hill Baptist Church is as easy as trying to nail jell-o to the wall. It’s IMPOSSIBLE and INDESCRIBABLE. Someone once said, “If you can explain what God’s doing, then God’s not doing it.” An authentic move of God cannot be reduced to a formula, three steps, or packaged and sold as the next great fad to grow churches. However, experience teaches that if you desire God’s presence, authentic praise is your catalyst.

Psalm 22:3, says, “Yet you are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.” Ok, so what does that mean? It means God lives, dwells, and manifests Himself in your circumstance when you praise Him. Our praise penetrates Heaven and causes atmospheric disturbances (see 2 Chronicles 22:1-30; Acts 16:16-26). Praise is our weapon of choice when we face circumstances beyond our control.

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Quick!  How many have heard this phrase:

Bloom where you’re planted.

I heard this heard statement before and it’s about making the most of what you have and being content with your life.  Although I could not find the actual verse that bears directly on this statement, 1 Corinthians 7:17-24 suggest the idea of contentment.

Paul had been giving instruction in Chapter 7 regarding marital status. Apparently there was some level of discontent among the believers where there was an inordinate desire to change their state from single to married or from married to single.

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In Part 1, I shared my experiences regarding change and transition.  If you missed it, you can read it HERE.

In 2011 we experienced many exciting changes at Mars Hill Baptist Church.  Regardless of how exciting the vision of the building was, we know now that in the process, we left some people behind.  

 In Part 1, we learned how BUILDINGS HOUSE MEMORIES - DON’T ERASE THEIR SIGNIFICANCE.

Here’s SECOND humbling lesson learned:

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I’ll admit, as a leader it’s quite easy to get caught up with a vision. It’s natural because as leader’s we’re encouraged to look out for opportunities and then take the lead in making things happen. But sometimes we find ourselves alone out front, and wonder what happened to the people we’re leading? Why aren’t they with us?

GOING FISHING - WHO’S IN?

Take a scenario of a group of people going fishing on a lake. Typical leaders get the vision, jump in the boat, and are off to fish.  However, the rest of the group may take a different approach. As the leaders look back, they find that half the people are still on the river bank. 

Some are still prepping their fishing gear. Some are just starting to launch their boats. Others are on the water but are heading in the opposite direction. Some are going in circles and still others haven’t yet even decided if they feel like fishing after all. That’s when you realize that only leading from the front doesn’t always help facilitate the transition.

John Maxwell in his book “Winning With People” admits that patience is not one his strengths. He says: “When I was younger I constantly cast vision for the people in my organization and then left them behind – not a good thing for a leader.”

In 2011 we experienced many exciting changes at Mars Hill Baptist Church.  Regardless of how exciting the vision of the building was, we know now that in the process, we left some people behind. There were parts of the process where as leaders we simply dropped the ball.

Mars Hill Baptist Church - Before

Here’s FIRST humbling lesson learned:

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When I tell people the name of our church, People often look at me with a blank stare. That stare says: “Why in the world would you choose Mars Hill for the name of your church?” Scripture says:

A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold. Proverbs 22:1 (NIV)

Out of all the Names Available, Why did we Choose “Mars Hill?”

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Happy Saturday!

Last Sunday, November 20, 2011, we held our Family & Friends Day during our 8:00am and 10:30am services. On this day, we rededicated our sanctuary and shared the blessing with family and friends, former members, co-workers, and those who may be searching for a church home.

Last week I asked those who attended to share their thoughts, views, & comments on my Facebook page. The comments & words of encouragement were too powerful & life-changing not to share.  

Here’s what they shared: 

Pastor Stowers, its said actions speak louder than words… well my 3 cousins tried to tear up our new chairs getting their praise on (LOL), one cousin told me she’s thinking about becoming a member and my two girlfriends were very animate about how they enjoyed the service!!! Bottom line, I’m proud to be a member of MH and blessed that my invitation was so well received. “Teamwork makes the dream work!” Nockamury Coleman

I had a wonderful time. It’s been a while since I had the opportunity to worship with my entire family!!! What a privilege!!!! The Word was both timely and a confirmation. I’m Walking in Plan B! It’s time to be in the perfect will of God! BTW, I love the new sanctuary! It’s beautiful!!! Lady Marcie Stowers

This was a AWESOME DAY @ THE HILL……The message was on point I AM FOLLOWING MY “PLAN B”…..My father was my guest he said that he really enjoyed himself and the WORSHIP was great….Thanks for letting me be apart of THE MARS HILL BAPTIST CHURCH FAMILY….Wanda Hudson

 I had a wonderful time…it was so refreshing to see my Mars Hill Baptist Church family. My girls said that it felt like they returned home. They were so excited to see everyone and happy and excited that so many people knew who they were. I haven’t gotten my praise on like that in over a year. Can’t nobody bring it like The Hill….God blessed! Daphne Pickney

All I can say is “Never wanna leave this place!” Margaret is the greatest, she shared with me the programs and writings which are a part of our church history. What a great woman of God and friend!  Charles Sands

I thank God for the increase & this day will forever be etched in my heart, mind, & soul.