It’s hard to remember enjoying rain as much as I did last Tuesday. Probably because it followed Monday’s stifling heat, and the longer dry season that concluded with a glowing red sunset through smoke filled air. Witnessing a downpour of rain on my crispy lawn and gardens felt like the refreshment God loves to bring, not only to the land, but to dry and thirsty souls. 

There are numerous ways God refreshes the hearts of people, which I have been reminded of in stories I have heard recently. One of those was last Sunday night when Charlee shared her baptism testimony. She shared that while she grew up going to church, she didn’t have a personal relationship with Jesus. She moved to London and worked as a nanny, and during this time stepped away from faith altogether. Yet God was at work to draw her back to himself. Here are some of her words…

When I moved back to Brisbane in March, I went to church one morning with my parents. During that service I realised how much I missed going to church and felt a conviction to come back. I added The Grove to the first on my list of many to try out so I came to an evening service in early April. I do not remember a single thing about that service. I could not tell you who spoke, who led the worship, what the message was on. Nothing. But I do remember an overwhelming feeling of welcomeness as a group of strangers invited me to go surfing with them the next morning. And while I didn’t go surfing it was that moment that led me to call The Grove my home. Since coming here my faith has absolutely flourished. I no longer have a superficial relationship with God but now know him personally. I have come back to the realisation that I am a daughter of God, that I am known, chosen and truly loved by him.

What I love about Charlee’s story is how powerful the welcome of a church is. When people welcome others with the love of Jesus, it’s like the first rain after a long season of feeling empty, dry, and even alone. What started with a welcome, was soon a testimony of flourishing faith in Charlee’s life. 

I am so thankful for our church family, because many seek to welcome and love others each week, morning and night. Jesus is drawing more and more people from dry and tough seasons, to come and try out church again. People like Charlee who are curious and looking to reconnect with faith. People who are weary from going it alone, and looking for what can fill a growing hunger in their hearts. People who have wounds, are battling some tough issues… people just like us. 

Let’s all play our part in expressing the love of Jesus with others, and reflect 

the one who invites those who are weary to come to him and find rest for their 

souls. Simply coming to church each week is an opportunity to be the people 

God uses to bring spiritual refreshment to dry and weary souls. 

         Marty