Friday night I went to a Michael W. Smith concert at Calvary Chapel Tucson. I bought a ticket to see him months ago while living in Seattle, Washington. Well, let me just say, I'm really glad I had the opportunity to attend this concert. It was one of those rare, special concerts that truly ministered to my heart in such a deep, pliable way. There was a wonderful group that led worship beforehand. They were great! Joshua Havens, a worship leader and member of the Afters, looked familiar to me. I had bought a trash can from Teen Challenge that morning, and I'm almost certain he was the one to ask me if I had bought my trash can from TC at the cross section. I said, "yes, I did- I shop there all the time!" He said thank you and went on his way. I felt so proud to be supporting the ministry that does so much good in my small way. I was proud, also, that these men have become my friends. Actually, my first friends in Tucson! Joshua shared how his brother had a meth addiction for over ten years, but that he is now clean and free. The message was simple- don't give up on people!
The last time I saw Michael W. Smith in concert I was probably 16. I remember that he challenged me as a teenager to preach without words the message of God's love. Friday night he challenged and encouraged me again. Worship is transformative. As I sat in my seat, tears just poured and poured, and I was drawn again to my First Love. The music was incredibly beautiful. I loved the instrumental piece he played. I love how the piano can be played and convey such emotion by itself. He played all the classics (Friends, Place in this World, Awesome God), but I loved the new worship songs most. I loved Sovereign, Christ Be All Around Me, Healing Rain. Michael talked about how the American churches struggle with the concept of GRACE and how if we could just grasp how much Jesus loves us... And how much He is for us. He talked a lot about the Father heart of God, which of course, also ministered to me very much. Recent events in my life have been hard, and I could feel my heart building up some bitterness/anger. I was able to let those feelings go as I remembered how much Jesus loves me, and how He is able to be both my father and mother. Another thing that blessed me so much is hearing how the church is ALIVE around the world. This excites me tremendously. It's good to hear and think about...
I will also add that Michael W. Smith is a class act. I like that he came on stage simply and humbly. I love that there's no fancy band- just him and his piano. It's hard to believe he's 56 years old. As the lady beside me commented, "He hasn't aged". I would have to agree. He's charming and fun and down to earth.
For all these reasons and more, I'm really glad I finally found the Calvary Church in Tucson and even though the bus ride home was less than enjoyable, it was worth it!
This was me on my way to the concert! I even wore a cute daisy skirt. :)
And here is a picture of Tucson that I took while walking around and getting lost before the concert. :)
No comments:
Post a Comment