New Spring's Openning Day.
I can't begin to explain my heart in a way that could truly convey what I felt this past Sunday. Weeks of preparation came down to one day. All I can say is that God was there in every form and for me it was a very emotional morning. We arrived at the church at around 6:00am. The sun was just peeking over the horizon. Just enough to see the outline of the treetops. There was a stiff chill in the air and it almost hurt to breath through my nose. My body shivered. I'm not sure if it was the cold air or the adrenaline pumping through my veins. There was an exciting nervousness that reminded me of the way I felt when my son was born. It was amazing.
Coffee.
I kind of went my own way and just walked through the building just praying in the silence. As I walked through the atrium and down the children's wing I could imagine the sounds of people filling the space. I could see children running and dragging mom and dad with them. I could see smiles on peoples faces. Joy in their hearts. I walked into each and every children's room, and with lights off I prayed for the lives that would be radically changed over time. "These children are the future of this church, God bless each and every one of them." I thanked God for the selflessness of the volunteers and their sacrifice given. With toys and blocks neatly stacked and organized... I was thrilled for what was to come.
I made my way to the auditorium. It was silent. It was a surreal experience. I just stood there in awe of what was to come this day. Gods presence was all over this place and He was smiling. I sat down in a seat and just became still. My eyes welled up. As excited as I was about this new place, I couldn't help but think about The Fine Arts Center at Anderson College. It was empty this morning, and it would remain empty this entire day. We have great memories there and many lives were changed. The continued selflessness and sacrifice that was made on a daily bases to make it all happen will never be forgotten. The responsibilities have now just moved and shifted into what we now can call our home.
As people started flooding in I thought to myself, Wow... these people are coming in to get the first seat in the house. Then I realized the reality of it... these were our volunteers. There were more volunteers in the building than most churches have in the congregation. This moved me. A plethora of donuts and bagels were spread out all over the volunteer headquarters. With coffee brewing continuously... these people were excited to be here. It was a beautiful sight.
By 8:30am the atrium was nearly packed. People waiting at the auditorium doors for them to open. You could feel the adrenaline in the air. When the doors finally opened the expressions on peoples faces as they filed in was incredible. First timers and members alike. As people found a seat they would look around as if they were children in the biggest toy store ever created.
The energy in the first service was breathtaking.
All I can say is that God was all up in this place and the same energy was there all day long.
Here are some pictures of the day. Enjoy.
