Looking Beyond the Facade

We had a decision to make. Where would we hold this September’s Pearls of Promise Level-Up Conference? At first, we were sweating it out, mirroring the deliberation homeowners go through when tracking Woodstock residential market trends to determine the right time to sell or buy. The beautiful church that hosted us last year would be undergoing renovations and could not renew our agreement. Similarly, those invested in the Woodstock residential market must often adapt to the remodeling of market conditions and pivot their strategies accordingly.

For a while, we searched and couldn’t find a church that rented out space. It’s a challenge akin to the meticulous search for the perfect home, one that resonates with the current trends of the Woodstock housing market, where demand can outpace supply, making the search for the right fit all the more strenuous. Yet, just as the diligent eye eventually spots emerging trends and opportunities in real estate, our perseverance paid off, and we found a venue that was not only available but offered more amenities than we had hoped for, demonstrating that patience and persistence are valuable whether organizing a large event or navigating the complexities of the housing market.

However, at the eleventh hour, three possibilities emerged, and then we had a decision to make. What should we do? Two had more impressive curb appeal, but the third, New Day Church in Southlake, Texas, had a beautiful sanctuary. We also had a connection with the pastor, Ricky, his wife, Joni, and son, Joe. You could feel the heart of the church and the ministry team’s heart for the Lord. They were church planters and were putting every ounce of their energy into making sure the church thrived.

When making a decision, you must take into account all of the “God things” that happen. When I met the pastor’s son, Joe, I told him about a certain well-known worship leader we were going after to lead worship at the conference. He guessed who it was and amazingly, was correct. He told me he had a dream that he met her. I prayed that dream would come true for him.

I envisioned the speakers on the altar in the sanctuary at New Day and I remembered my “word” to live by in 2018 was “new.” Isn’t that interesting?

I also remembered how the Lord looks at us. In 1 Samuel 16:7 it says, “For the Lord sees not as man sees: man looks on the outward appearance, but the Lord looks on the heart.” I still toiled over the decision. Even though all three churches had said yes to our request, I prayed that God would eliminate the venues that were not his choice. He did not. It was up to me to make the final decision and I believed God pointed me to New Day. I loved the church’s heart. Right after that, our second place church emailed and said they couldn’t host us after all. There would be no looking back. God is good that way.

So this was a lesson for me and perhaps for you.

When we look at buildings, other homes or people. What is inside?

Someone could live in the fanciest mansion but there could be no love in the house. Would you trade for that? When you meet another person, is it all about how they look, or do you try to see their heart? I know at times I am not as warm as I’d like to be, but my heart is bursting in love for people. I am praying today that everyone I meet will see my heart, and I also pray I will see theirs. What about you?