The true beauty of our NYC church plant was its biblical representation. Not only were we committed to preaching the Word in every meeting and event, but we emphatically strived to live out the Word in our fellowship, ministry, and purpose. We were the Church. We were a New Creation made up of different parts, but working towards a common goal with Christ as the Head. We were also the object of His miracles and the means by which they were also carried out and administered to countless others. It was incredible and miraculous, and I do not believe that I am simply looking back on history with 'rose tinted' glasses...
In our return to PA, there have certainly been moments where we feared that what we experienced in NYC may never be found again. After visiting some very nice churches and communicating with some great pastors, great friendships and hopes for ministry have emerged but, all in all, none have been able to capture that 'living church' motif that we had come to know. God forbid, but we found ourselves thinking like so many other believers who had 'fallen out' of church and simply convinced themselves that nothing would ever be as good as it was. But then this happened...
Pastor Shawn and Pastor Tommy of Life Church and Rescue CC, respectively, came into our lives and allowed us to experience the living power of the church once again. Both of these leaders have taken the mission and substance of the church seriously and are overseeing communities of authentic faith and power. It is not merely dogma or moralism but rather holy knowledge and trust. LifeChurch in Hershey is an ever-growing family of first-degree relationships. People come to the church as strangers, but by the end of the service everyone is sharing phone numbers and home addresses so as to share a meal together. It's not just PA-hospitality or the result of 'grow or die' leadership philosophy. Through the prompting of the Spirit, members are intentionally loving one another in the power of the Church.
Up in Harrisburg, Pastor Tommy and Rescue CC are conducting a prayer walk to see an entire city block be given for God's purpose and glory. Yeah, it's ambitious; Yeah, it's youthful zeal; but, it is also grounded entirely in the understanding and experience that comes from knowing Jesus, His Call and His provision. If God could turn the world upside down in Acts, then why couldn't He do the same today in Harrisburg? Regardless of what the Lord provides for Rescue CC, I am confident it will be something more than could ever hope for and will exceed their expectations for the Lord's glory. There is too much trust and experience within that Church for anything less to me manifested!
God is doing a great work in PA and we are honored to be here, at this time, to witness it and share in its activity. If you have not yet found a church home, or are looking for one with the 'power' that the Bible speaks of, then please check out these two churches. Each is unique in its presentation and makeup, but both share the same power, foundation, purpose, and hope. Come be a part of God's LIVING CHURCH.
