FOLLOW-UP TO "MOTOWN MOMENT"

During a recent men's group meeting my friend Jeff Callender challenged each of us to reflect on an important "memorial" in our life. (something that was a life "game changer"). The first thing that came to mind was an experience at the Assembly of God church in Harrisburg, PA. It was at that church altar fifty years ago that I re-dedicated my life to God. This was after a "Motown Moment"{previous post}

 

Anyway, Jeff's challenge was bugging me so I decided to see if I could visit the church. When I called the receptionist answered "Hello, this is "Memorial Church". (Turns out the church is now Memorial Baptist Church). I asked if it would be OK to visit the church to see the altar where my life was changed. She said, "Of course you may visit!" 

 

So, my then 95-year-old Mom asked if she could accompany me to the church. (she and my dad started to attend this church to support me after my "Motown Moment".

 

A few days later we walked into the sanctuary. It was as if nothing had been moved for half a century. Same everything. I kneeled at the exact same altar and thanked God for His grace those many years ago. I made a new commitment to live the rest of my life for Him.

 

Our mom with her special new friends

The church staff surrounded Mom and I and the pastor led in prayer. It was a special, sacred visit. They told us that the church was about to be completely renovated and had we not visited on that day, we may have not seen the original altar. 

 

God is so good.