Below is a recent call to action from the RCA’s General Secretary, Eddy Aleman. What is our responsibility?

Caring for the most vulnerable is not optional; it is a calling from Christ. We believe this calling means that we have a responsibility to speak up for and take action to help children who have been separated from their parents at the U.S.-Mexico border. With this statement, the Reformed Church in America condemns the separation of children from their parents and calls for a more biblical, humane approach.

RCA Urges Support of Immigrant Families

In April 2018, the Trump Administration rolled out a zero-tolerance policy of arresting and criminally prosecuting all adults apprehended by border control for illegal entry. Under this policy, when adults are arrested, they get separated from their children. Even those who are seeking asylum—a legally protected right—get prosecuted and separated from their children.

President Trump signed an executive order to end the policy on Wednesday afternoon, June 20. Although this is encouraging news, many challenges and questions still remain. The administration says it will continue its zero-tolerance policy of prosecuting all adults stopped by border patrol, and many questions still remain about how families will be able to stay together and in what conditions.

Given the seriousness of this issue and the questions that remain, we in the Reformed Church in America believe our Christian witness still compels an informed and biblical response to the situation. So it is in this hour that we make a bold, biblical, conscientious statement that affirms our hopes for this country and for those that are seeking the privileges and freedoms the U.S. has to offer.

We recognize the intent of immigration policies that seek to protect U.S. borders and U.S. citizens. However, we condemn the policy of forced family separation and urge the Trump Administration to find more ethical, humane approaches that preserve the family unit as people seek asylum or citizenship status.

The trauma that is inflicted on children when families are forcibly separated has devastating immediate and long-term consequences. Studies show that children who are separated from their parents are more likely to exhibit delinquent behavior, an inability to empathize with others, long-term psychological conditions such as PTSD, and difficulties with memory and impulse control.

As followers of Jesus Christ, we’re compelled to practice a gospel that is “pure and undefiled”—to “care for orphans and widows in their distress” (James 1:27). Caring for the most vulnerable is not optional; it is a calling from Christ. As part of this calling, when defenseless children are torn from their parents, we believe we have a responsibility to respond.

So we pray. We pray for the reunification of families. We pray for the healing of children who have been traumatized and for them to have strength and comfort while they are away from their parents. We pray for people to find homes free from conflict, extreme poverty, and war.

We speak up. We call for more humane, biblical approaches to enforcing U.S. laws at the border and for the reunification of families that have been separated.

We take action. We seek to participate in meaningful work that minimizes and helps heal the traumatic impact on children and families who are separated. And we urge all RCA congregations to join us in these efforts.

Although the challenges are great, we have hope that God will lead us toward a more biblical, humane, and loving way of treating the strangers in our midst.

In Christ, Eddy Alemán, General Secretary

I recently downloaded a Dictionary app on my phone (don’t judge) and since then I have received a daily notification for a Word of the Day. It has made me feel a bit uneducated and uncivilized since I have not been familiar with any of the words so far. For example, today was the word “antigodlin”. If I had to make a guess, I might reason that it has something to do with being ungodly or against God. However, the actual definition of the word is 1) lopsided or at an angle; out of alignment, 2) diagonal or cater-cornered.

My car has been a bit antigodlin lately. I purchased new tires a few weeks ago and paid for an alignment, but it just wasn’t good. As I drove down the highway and let go of the wheel, it would quickly pull to the right. We made an appointment to recheck the alignment. The mechanic tweaked a few things and thought it was fixed, but upon further driving on the open road it continued to pull to the right. After yet another appointment at the repair shop, the mechanic thought that switching the front tires would help. It did. But now the car pulled to the left. The decision was made to order a new tire and try that. Thankfully, the new tire seems to have done the trick. The car is no longer antigodlin, but drives down the road in a relatively straight line.

A wheel alignment sounds like a simple thing, but when I googled the method I realized it is actually an elaborate process that brings the car’s suspension into proper configuration, positioning and adjusting components so the wheels are aligned with one another and the road surface. When your wheels are out of alignment, the tires aren’t pointing in the right direction. This affects steering and suspension, but could also affect your safety and the durability of your tires and other parts of your car.

Sometimes my life seems to be a bit antigodlin also. I feel a bit lopsided and like I can’t get things straight. I try to go forward, but there are distractions and detours. I veer to the right and then to the left and struggle with advancing in a linear direction. Like the alignment on my car, I continually need to check and recheck my alignment with God. His Word gives us many insights into the process and the proper configuration:

• Proverbs 4:23 Keep your heart with all vigilance, for from it flow the springs of life.
• Romans 12:2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.
• Hebrews 13:5 Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have.
• Ephesians 5:11 Take no part in the unfruitful works of darkness, but instead expose them.
• 2 Corinthians 10:5 We demolish arguments and every lofty opinion that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and take every thought captive to make it obedient to Christ.
• Philippians 4:8 Whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.
• Philippians 1:27 Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.

So wherever you find yourself on the road of life, it is my prayer that you would align yourself with God according to his Instruction Manual, that you would be diligent about rechecking that alignment until you get it right, that you would finish the race and keep the faith.

Erin Jacobsma

“Turn left…turn left…left again…turn right…stop…proceed…turn right…right again…slow down…brake…Brake…BRAKE!”

These are the words that have become the language spoken inside our car over the past year. Our daughter has her learning permit and is required to log 40 driving hours before she can test and proceed to her provisional driver’s license. We started out driving in the church parking lot, proceeded to city streets, then advanced to highways and the Interstate. We have practiced left turns and right turns, accelerating smoothly, stopping gently, following at a safe distance, controlled and uncontrolled intersections, lane changes, maintaining speed, driving defensively, backing up, and parallel parking. She has improved greatly. However, it occurred to me several weeks ago that while her skills have become more refined, the day is approaching where she will be the only one in the car and, up until this point, I have been making most of the decisions for her. Therefore, our driving instructions have now evolved into “Drive to the church; take us to the park; proceed to the grocery store; go to Grandpa and Grandma’s house.” Instead of me telling her how to get to where we need to go, she has had to enlist her brain and her own thought process to make the decisions required to help us arrive at our destination.

This week I had a similar experience of employing my mind. Wednesday was the first morning of the Community Women’s Bible Study at the Christian Reformed Church. Twenty or so women from multiple area churches gathered for Jen Wilkin’s study of the book of 1st Peter. The opening video was interesting and Jen warned us that this study might be different than studies we had done in the past. We would be looking at the Bible as a book about God-discovery, not self-discovery. We would be engaging not only our heart and emotions, but most of all our mind. Then the author laid out a few guidelines, the first of which made me hesitate: no commentaries, no study notes, no paraphrases. Wait, what? My NIV Study Bible is an old companion that she was asking me to leave at home for this journey. The Study Bible is printed with the scripture at the top of the page and explanations printed underneath for almost every single verse.

As I held my breath, I listened to her reasoning. She likened the use of study notes to a driver using a GPS device. We mindlessly listen to the automated voice telling us to turn left or right until we arrive at our destination without much trouble and without really knowing how we got there. However, if our GPS were to lose signal and we had to think about where we actually were and struggle with our confusion and dwell in the “I don’t know”, it would actually be a good thing and we would probably remember that route and destination in the future. As Jen Wilkins explained, “Nobody likes to feel lost or confused, but it is an important step in the acquisition and retention of understanding.” I began to evaluate how often I read a passage in scripture and then jump straight to the study guide for an explanation of what I read instead of mentally chewing on it for a while and letting the Holy Spirit speak to me personally.

In Psalm 119:97 David says, “Oh, how I love Your words.” While I can say that I love the Word, I am convicted that all too often I spend more time reading books and devotionals about God’s Word than the Word itself. Devotionals, study guides, and commentaries can be helpful, but I would like to grow in allowing the Holy Spirit to lead me into truth before I listen to someone else’s insight or direction. Scripture also warns us in 2 Timothy 4:3-4 that there will come a time when the truth will be disregarded and people will surround themselves with others who tell us what our itching ears want to hear. I think that time has come. And how easy it is to be deceived when you haven’t learned the truth firsthand.

My challenge to you and myself is to get in the Word. Read, struggle, listen, think. As Jen Wilkin reminded me, “The heart can’t love what the mind doesn’t know.” May God’s Word be the lamp to your feet and the light to your path! Erin Jacobsma

When spring finally arrived this year, you could find AJ at the ball diamond. He loves to play baseball and enjoys time spent with his friends while tossing the ball around. Over the years it has been fun to watch him develop his skills and grow his knowledge of the game. AJ plays with a smile on his face even when mistakes are made and we often see his cute, little dimples from the stands after a well-executed play – all the way from the outfield! He and his teammates encourage one another and brush off their frustrations well. Win or lose, when the game is over, they are all the best of buds. I may be biased, but it is a joy to watch those boys play together!

Over the years, each player has found their position on the field. AJ most often finds himself in center field or on the pitching mound. When he is in the outfield it never ceases to amaze me how quick he is to get into position and nab a ball out of the air, swiftly throwing it back to the infield. While I enjoy watching him throw pitches from the mound, it does make this mom a little nervous with each crack of the bat. I worry about that sweet little boy getting hurt by a line drive baseball to the shins or mouth. He thinks I am ridiculous and continues working on his technique anyway. A few weeks ago he came to me complaining of shoulder pain. He is not one to complain too quickly, so my mind immediately thought of all the terrible things it could be. After a visit to the school trainer, she recommended some rest and heat. Mom maybe overreacted a little bit. The instructions to rest left AJ a little bummed and disappointed he would not be able to give it his all at practice or during a game. After about a week, the coach had him back on the mound tossing strikes – with a big, bright smile on his face.

Does life ever get you down? It seems as though life throws a curve ball of sorts and suddenly you have been plunged into this sea of fear and uncertainty. To some degree, I believe we have all experienced this sudden sense of tragedy, doubt, and disappointment. It’s not an easy journey, nor is it much fun. The last few days I’ve heard of several people who have been left feeling hurt, discouraged or let down. The following was a part of my recent morning devotions and I’d like to share it with you as a source of love and encouragement.

“The Cure for Disappointment” from He Still Moves Stones:

“Come and see what God has done, the amazing things he has done for people.” Psalm 66:5

We need to hear that God is still in control. We need to hear that it’s not over until he says so. We need to hear that life’s mishaps and tragedies are not a reason to bail out. They are simply a reason to sit tight.

Corrie ten Boom used to say, “When the train goes through a tunnel and the world gets dark, do you jump out? Of course not. You sit still and trust the engineer to get your through”…

The way to deal with discouragement? The cure for disappointment? Go back and read the story of God. Read it again and again. Be reminded that you aren’t the first person to weep. And you aren’t the first person to be helped.

Read the story and remember, the story is yours!

“So let us rejoice because of what he did. He rules forever with his power.” Psalm 66:6b-7a

Becky Ossefoort

One of the ways Vicki and I kindle our love relationship is by engaging in some deep heart to heart conversation around a bonfire on the back patio. We reflect on the joy of being united as one, or about God’s vision for our lives and for our family, about the transformation we are experiencing, but mostly about the blessing of having so many deep friendships as we silently scroll through Facebook.

I believe most people enjoy gathering around a good crackling pit fire on a cool summer’s night. Pit fires seem to have a natural way of bringing about good conversations filled with reflections of the events of the past week, solving the world’s problems, or from fond childhood memories.

Memories like the time when Mitchell had a bunch of his high school friends over for a bonfire. It was getting late so Vicki and I decided to go to bed which apparently presented the perfect opportunity for the boys to throw an unopened can of pork and beans into the fire. Well wouldn’t you know it, in the same way pork and beans can create internal combustion in a human being, so it is when thrown in an open fire. We hadn’t been in bed long when we heard what sounded like a gunshot followed by an eruption of laughter, Yep, the can of beans exploded and we had pork and beans all over our yard, even on our deck that was 40 feet away. (Hey kids, you’ll have to try it sometime!)

As I was thinking about some of our more memorable bonfires, I also thought about the one we had last summer. Vicki and I were getting low on fire wood, so I stopped at a gas station in Rock Rapids and I picked up a couple bundles of tightly wrapped, precut logs that had been sliced into one inch by ten inch pieces.

Later that evening I neatly stacked our remaining supply of fire wood on the fire pit: I filled the nooks and crannies with newspapers and started striking a couple of rocks together. Soon Vicki and I were enjoying the warmth and light of a roaring bonfire.  Not long after, as all fires do, the flames began to die, so, eager to try out the new wood I purchased, I strategically added a few of the pieces. However, much to my surprise, rather than fueling the fire again, the remaining flames turned to red hot embers and the wood I added began to send plumes of white smoke into the sky.

Immediately I was overcome by feelings of disenchantment, but thank goodness the Holy Spirit reminded me of my Calvinist Cadets training—get the bottle of lighter fluid. I quickly grabbed the bottle and I gave it a good squeeze, as the stream of accelerant hit the glowing embers, the flames immediately leapt high into the air filling the dark cold night with a beautiful warm glow. But then, and again much to my disillusionment, the fire almost extinguished itself before I could slide the marshmallows on my roasting stick—my new bundle of wood was wet wood.

As I reflected on that memorable experience, I thought about the story in Acts 2 and how the Holy Spirit ignited that early church on fire to be a light in this dark world. And then I thought about the Apostle Paul’s warning in I Thessalonians 5:19 “Don’t put out the Spirit’s fire” (GW). Which led me to ponder; when it comes to the Kingdom fire blazing at ARC, in what ways am I good dry wood that fuels the fire, and in what ways am I like wet wood that puts out the Spirit’s fire?

When I reflect on the fire at ARC, in our Classis, or in our denomination, I’m wondering about the impact of wet wood.

I am the light of the world,

Mike Altena

I’d like to take this opportunity to give an update on the activity of the Ridder Church Renewal (RCR) Team over the past eight months. For those who aren’t familiar with the RCR team, we have been commissioned by the Consistory to engage in a process designed by Western Seminary to help our congregation move towards God’s preferred future of faithful and missional living demonstrated personally and corporately.

In the initial module of our Ridder process, our team was introduced to two core values and three skill sets that are significant in helping us discover and live into God’s preferred and emerging future. The two  core values are authenticity and integrity and the three skill sets are developing a metal model of discipleship comprised of radical obedience, reflective living, and communities of grace and truth, learning how family systems impacts our ministry, and generating and sustaining creative tension.

Part of the homework of engaging the skill set of generating and creating creative tension was to identify our current reality specifically in regards to our understanding of engaging Christ’s kingdom mission. And if you remember, in August of 2017, we presented our narrative of what we believe is our current reality of missional engagement. Included in that document was information about the process, affirmations of how we are living on mission, as well as several “technical” and “adaptive” challenges.

Since last September the RCR team has been focusing on two areas. First, each team member has been intentional about living on mission, and in particular, seeking to engage those who have wandered far from God. At each of our meetings we reflect on how we are growing in faithful and fruitful missional living as well as the obstacles.

Secondly, we have been intentionally seeking the heart of God in regards to how he may be calling ARC to bring the kingdom of God to a specific issue in the community. Although not reported in the current reality document, after interviewing representatives from several subsystems, we discovered that some people are unable to find rides to doctor’s appointments. We discovered an increase of mental illness and a lack of respect among community members. We discovered a need for mentoring in the school system as well as lack of affordable housing. When meeting with a local banker we discover the growing level of personal debt and a visit with the Rock County Daycare Supervisor revealed a need for more daycare.

In our research we discovered many possible areas where ARC could invest intentional time and resources to bless our community, and yet we didn’t want to just rush into anything without seeking the heart of God, and so we worked through Ruth Haley Barton’s book, Pursuing God’s Will Together.

During this season of discernment, the daycare issue has come up a number of times and in a variety of unique ways indicating the Spirit might be speaking to us, and so on May 1 we met with Holly Sammons and Emily Crabtree to learn more about this issue. (See May 16 issue of the Star Herald about daycare).

We wonder…could God be calling ARC to partner with the city of Luverne and/or with other entities to address this need? Or could God’s preferred future for ARC include starting our own ministry of daycare and preschool? Maybe ARC’s niche’ in the daycare issue is providing affordable daycare and preschool for single parent families in our community. (Some single parents can’t work because of the daycare costs). And what do you think? When reading about this possible mission, is there anything that begins to stir in your heart? If so, I would invite you to join our next RCR meeting on Tuesday night, June 5 at 7:00 in the Commons.

I have heard of several things ARC has become known for, some good, some not so good. My prayer is that, whether personally or corporately, we truly are growing for God’s glory as we bless our community in the name of Jesus! Mike Altena

According to ABC News, Orville Rogers of Dallas, Texas set 5 new US and World Records in the 100-104 age category at the 2018 USATF Masters Indoor Track & Field Championships in Landover, Maryland. Rogers started running when he was 50 years old and began competing in track meets when he turned 90. He has quite the track record in Track Records.

The term “track record” most likely originated with horse racing and referred to a horse’s best time at a track. But the phrase has expanded over the years to include many areas of achievement. For example, we talk about the track records of investments, sports teams, people, companies, and products. Track records can be positive or negative. They are simply the things that someone has done in the past that can be used as a way to judge what that person is likely to do in the future. Perhaps you have a track record for being late to work or for setting off the smoke alarm when you are cooking. On the other hand, maybe you have a history of generosity or compassion. Either way, your past behaviors are often a good indicator of future performance.

The Bible mentions the track records of many people. Abraham had a track record of faithful obedience, but also lying. Moses’ track record included an explosive temper, but also a heart for God’s people. Samson had a history with women. David was accomplished in trusting God against all odds. For Solomon, operating with wisdom was his standard. Each of these people had a history that gave a clue to their present and future.

The apostle Peter also had a track record. Most memorable was three separate occasions where Peter blatantly denied his best friend. Not only did he deny knowing Jesus, he disowned everything about him—everything he had done—everything he had taught. But Peter also had a track record of obedience, trust, willingness, and zeal. Peter didn’t hesitate when Jesus said, “Come”. His feet knew the sure foundation of the Savior both on land and sea. Peter trusted Jesus whether bringing him five loaves and two fish to feed 5,000 people, or by putting his boat out into deep water at Jesus’ request after a night of futile fishing.

Back in the boat is where Jesus found Peter following the roller coaster week that included Jesus’ death and resurrection and Peter’s track record of denial. Jesus had already appeared to the disciples so Peter knew he was alive, but so far there was no specific interaction between Jesus and Peter. I can only imagine the shame and disgrace that hung over Peter’s head. (Talk about an elephant in the room!) Peter, John, and some of the other disciples were out on the water and had been fishing all night with nothing to show for it. As the sun began to appear on the horizon, Jesus stood on the shore, but the disciples didn’t know who he was. After Jesus inquired about their catch, he informed them that they would find fish on the other side of the boat. The tired fishermen oblige the stranger and their nets become so loaded with fish that they cannot haul it in.

John is the first to see the recognizable sign of an overabundance of fish. Jesus had a track record too. John nudges Peter and nods toward the shore and shares his revelation: “It is the Lord.” Peter doesn’t hesitate and throws himself over the side of the boat. I can’t help but wonder if Peter was hoping that his past experience of water walking would hold true this time also.

After Jesus prepares breakfast and the meal is sitting heavy in the men’s stomachs, Jesus finally addresses Peter. Three times Jesus asks Peter if he loves him and then instructs him to care for his sheep. Jesus reinstates Peter and his future in God’s kingdom and cancels out his track record of denial and shame.

Jesus offers the same opportunity to us. No matter what our track record has been in the past, Jesus extends the opportunity to start a new way of life of faithfulness, obedience, trust, and service that will be a new normal. It’s not too late. Start a new record with Jesus!

Erin Jacobsma

Since becoming a mother I have experienced many emotions while watching my children grow up. I’m not sure one is ever completely prepared for any of those feelings as different situations arise. It sure would be nice to just box up time and keep our children little. Yet, that’s not the purpose God has for them, or us.

Just the other day in the school drop-off lane I experienced something new that left me speechless and perhaps a bit sad. Now, my son is growing up and would prefer I not give him a big kiss in the school parking lot, and I choose to respect that – most of the time. J As I was dropping him off at school I said “Have a great day. I love you!” I waited for a response as he stepped out of the car but there was none. Thinking he had not heard me, I repeated “I love you!” just a little louder than before. Just as I did, he  turned his head a bit and I noticed huge dimples and a smile on his face. Oh, he had heard me alright, but refused to verbally acknowledge what I had said. I was a bit surprised and even a little hurt when I realized my little boy is not so little anymore, and saying “I love you” to your mom is not so cool when your buddies are around. Little does he know the dimples and smile was just enough to avail my need for his affection that morning.

As I pondered what had happened, I felt a twinge of conviction as I drove away from the curb. I began to think about my relationship with my Creator, I wondered if I do the same thing to Him at times? How often do I withhold my sentiments of love, adoration and praise from Him? Does He experience the same emotions of hurt and sadness when I suppress my affection from Him?

One way I have found to show my adoration and love for the Father is to pray scriptures. There is really nothing like using God’s very own words to glorify Him. As I do so, I find myself aligned with His heart and full of praise for whom He is, not just what He does for me. Just this week as I was doing my morning devotions I found myself peering out the window, completely overcome by the beauty and variety of ways God is still creating. The newness of spring and the loveliness of the green grass, chirping of birds high in the trees, and bright green buds poking out their heads from branches grabbed my attention. I thought to myself, “Only my God can create so much beauty through one small window.” I flipped the pages in my Bible and allowed God’s words to help me praise and express my love for Him. I quickly found myself completely overwhelmed by His Sovereignty and love for all His creation.

So, even though my experience in the drop-off lane at school was a bit painful, I am thankful for it. The experience was a gentle reminder to examine how I speak my love to my Heavenly Father and to include more prayers of adoration and thanksgiving in my prayer time. Our lives are all busy, and our days are constantly filled with noise. But when we find a quiet place to pray and praise Him, we are able to connect and find ourselves drawn closer to Him. And when we choose to put ourselves and other distractions aside and spend time admiring Him from deep within our heart, it is amazing how He speaks.

What a Mighty God we serve!

Becky Ossefoort

One of the magazines I subscribe to is Outreach magazine and the reason I enjoy it is because it helps fuel my passion for connecting with wandering sojourners as well as equipping me to become a better evangelist.

After consulting with hundreds of churches, Thom Rainer submitted an interesting article in a recent publication entitled “10 Reasons Guests Don’t Return to Your Church”. Rainer writes, “Most church members have forgotten what it’s like to be a first-time guest. They now have established relationships in the church. They love their church. Their biases tell them their church is great.” And let me add, they are familiar and comfortable with how the church functions.

Rainer continues, “But many church members and leaders are wrong. When we asked hundreds of guests about their experiences visiting churches, it was not a pretty picture. We asked specifically why they did not return to a particular church.” Here were their top ten responses:

1. The stand and greet time in the worship service was unfriendly and awkward. Some guests saw it as only a ritual for the members while others felt ignored or inundated with superficial greetings.
2. Unfriendly church members. Most church members usually don’t speak to guests because they don’t know them and instead retreat to holy huddles of the people they do know.
3. Unsafe and unclean children’s areas. If your church does not have clear safety and security procedures, and if the children’s area is not clean and sanitary, young families will not return to your church.
4. No place to get information about the church. Guests are trained to look for a central welcome and information center, however, some churches didn’t have one or it was hidden or it was unmanned.
5. Bad church websites. Two critical items guests want to see on a church website are the physical address of the church and times of the services.
6. Poor signage. Guests get frustrated when they don’t have clear directional signage for parking, the worship center, the children’s area and others.
7. Insider church language. Listen carefully to the words and conversations in the worship service. See if members say things a first time guest would not understand.
8. Boring or bad worship services. In a digital age, with so many affordable resources, no church is allowed that excuse.
9. Members telling guests they were in the wrong pew or chair. In fact the common comment was, “You are sitting in my pew.”
10. Dirty facilities. A dirty church facility communicates to the guest, “We really don’t care.”

The staff took some time to discuss this list and it was helpful to have Missy Buckland’s input. Our conversation revealed that we are doing some of these things well and that some areas could use much improvement. I realize that several of the complaints had to do with the consumerism mentality that has infiltrated the church culture, and yet my hope is that we would always be a welcoming, kind, attentive, and authentic gathering of Christ followers. And I would encourage you to have a conversation with your family or Life Group about these observations.

I am grateful for all of you who give special effort to making our guests feel welcome and loved and I am especially thankful for our weekly greeters, ushers, and hosts. I realize we all have different personalities, and yet with Christ living in us and the greatest Good News on our lips, my prayer is that our guests will always feel like they encountered a little piece of heaven when they join us for worship.

Laboring for the harvest, Mike Altena

In my message last week I shared about an experience when God most powerfully manifested his presence in a worship experience at a Promise Keepers event in St. Louis. If you’ve ever had an experience like that then you know you don’t quickly forget it because of the overwhelming sense of awe and delight, love and peace. It’s a spiritually euphoric experience birthed through intimacy with God.

Although I don’t believe God calls us to seek those euphoric experiences, I have found they happen often during worship through song. Such was the case a few weeks ago when I was listening to a song on YouTube by Chris Tomlin entitled God’s Great Dance Floor.

Now when you first hear the song or read the lyrics, you might wonder what the big deal is. It goes like this:

I’m coming back to the start
Where you found me
I’m coming back to your heart
Now I surrender
Take Me
This is all I can bring

I’m coming back to the start
I got this freedom
In here we feel your heart
Your heartbeat for us
Take Me
This is all I can bring

You’ll never stop loving us
No matter how far we run
You’ll never give up on us
All of heaven shouts let the future begin
Let the future begin
Take me
This is all I can bring

You’ll never stop loving us
No matter how far we run
You’ll never give up on us
All of heaven shouts let the future begin
Let the future begin

I feel alive, I come alive
I am alive on God’s great dance floor

Again, the song is just a simple chorus, nothing profound doctrinally, yet very rich in theology. But here’s why I believe God manifested his presence for me when listening to the song. In the chapter on Halal The Fools of Praise in his book, Holy Roar, Chris Tomlin tells the story of how he and Martin Smith had gathered for a song writing session.

Chris explained how Martin had written an extended ballad entitled “Back to the Start,” which explored prodigal themes of return and rescue. Chris found it to be “a beautiful song—melodic, almost transfixing. And just when I thought it might end, it began to build, and build, and build into a closing refrain of celebration: I feel alive on God’s great dance floor.” A bit surprised by that line, Chris asked Martin, “What was that?” To which Martin explained, “It’s the prodigal return. When we come back to the Father, he throws a party. It’s not a time of lament, but rather a time of celebration—it’s a time to dance like a child.”

Months later, Tomlin found himself preparing to use the song at the Passion 2013 Conference (Annual Passion Conferences purpose is “to unite students in worship and prayer for spiritual awakening in this generation”). But first, because Tomlin also believes that worship is often more about seeing than singing, he went to a local Mexican restaurant and found a mariachi trumpeter to play with them.

Later, reflecting on the amazing response to the song, Tomlin wrote, “The crowd kept clapping, kept moving, but you could see it, they were transfixed by the man who seemed so out of place in the moment. He raised his trumpet, and when he played the first note, the stadium erupted. It was a dance party, a party of praise. It was a party fit for the return of the prodigals, the return of all sons and daughters.”

As I watched the YouTube video and reflected on my years of wandering far from God, I felt overwhelmed by God’s love expressed through his patient and graceful way with me. I thought about how the father ran to the son and welcomed him home and how he immediately called for a party… and then God manifested his presence and I began to weep as I thought about the longing in my heart to be a little more undignified in   my worship.

If you are able, I would encourage to watch God’s Great Dance Floor on YouTube, and imagine what the celebration was like when you returned home.

Halal, a fool of praise,

Mike Altena