“Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity.”
I believe that when David wrote this Psalm he was testifying to something that not only did he see but, what he experienced. I choose to, also like David, write about what I saw recently that was mind blowing.
I went on a youth trip to Pensacola, Florida with Pleasant Grove Moss Church in Moss. The Pastor there is Rev. Joe Keyes. He has a dynamite Youth Dept. I am not just saying it to be speaking, to find favor with man. (I desire my favor to come from God.) I am not quite sure how many children and young adults were on this trip, but it was a whole lot. Male and female, young and old, happy and sad, shy and outgoing.
Not everybody knew each other, but they new their purpose for being there. Their purpose was to build a relationship with God. Not only did they build a personal relationship, but they built one with their neighbor.
I saw young men and women who family had counted them out or were battling some personal issues stand in support for each other. To let them know, I may not have much strength, but with little that I have, I will hold you up with it. They believed in each other. They supported the good that they may not have seen but what they believed was on the inside. They cried together and laughed together. I saw little children consoling young adults. It was so beautiful.
I can imagine the smile God had on his face.
There were some that gave their life to Christ. I thank God for Bro. Mickey having enough patience and zeal to carry out this vision. All that those youth directors did took a lot of sacrifice. They made sure those children had food and drink at all times. It wasn’t ham sandwiches either. Fried chicken, BBQ chicken, hot dogs, chicken strips, chips, cake, snack cake, baked beans, green salad, snack, powerade, french fries, goodie bags and the list keeps on going. They went to the YMCA, beach, bowling, mall and had a grand time. The older looked out for the younger whether it was their sibling or not. When they were out in public, they knew how to conduct themselves.
I realize we put more focus on the negative things our young people do instead of the positive. There lingering on the inside of our children are hopes and dreams that need to be nurtured and brought to the surface. Life is not easy for any of us — especially our youth. They’re going through so many different changes to the point it’s hard for them to find their true identity. They tend to shape their life after the ones that show interest in them.
Even when the enemy tried to show up, they knew exactly where to put confusion — that was out of the camp. Anytime you try to do good, we all know evil tries to present itself. But, just because it shows up doesn’t mean you have to allow it to stay. He wasn’t on the agenda so he didn’t have rights there. They had a purpose along with an opportunity. Those children weren’t allowing anything or anyone to get in there way of “Building their relationship with God.”
We were there from Friday until Sunday night. Sunday those children were one accord and the Spirit of the Living God fell in that place. UNBELIEVABLE! The Holy Ghost filled that place as if it was the Day of Pentecost. I could only cry tears. To see those children having every empty void in their life filled was like David said, “like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments.” (psalms 133:2) That was a joy that could not be explained.
If your child was on that trip, I want you to know that they had an encounter with God that I know opened their eyes to alot of things. Moms and Dads, just be patient with your children and know that God ain’t through with them yet. Pray for them. It is important that you pray for your children. They may not be able to endure what you endure coming up in life. But, know it’s a battle for them. Team up with them and fight for your child’s life other than against them. Let them know you’re on their team.
I know bits and pieces of their struggles. I taught a few of the classes. Even if your child was not on the trip, show your children you love them by showing interest in them. Going through their struggles with them as a support group and a guide. I pray that God will give you Grace and Patience as you fight with your child as they fight for their life.
Pastor Keyes and First Lady, thank you for allowing me to experience the Upper Room. You have something to be proud of. A great church reflects the pastor and a great pastor reflects the church and God. The reflection that I saw was amazing. Thank you for allowing me to see the heart of God through you. Jeremiah 3:15 “And I will give you pastors according to mine heart, which shall feed you with knowledge and understanding.”
Thank you for reading this article. I pray that something was said that will help you.
Melissa Mapp is the Pastor/ Founder of Mission International Ministry 1106 Capitol St. (off Queensbug Ave) in Laurel. Contact her at drevangelistmapp@aol
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