Today was one of those days where we had a “free” Sunday. Therefore we decided to visit a church that Christina and I used to visit during my seminary years. Yup, for the record – Christina and I (when we were courting) used to sometimes go to church service for our date nights!
Back in the 80’s and 90’s, Willowcreek Community Church had such a huge impact in the Chicagoland area. I think for most people it was the sheer size of the church, but for me it was the passion for lost people and their value for excellence that inspired me.
It is hard to believe that it has been close to 31 years of reaching out to lost people and letting people know that they “matter to God.”
They had a Christmas special production this weekend (Willowcreek style). It was truly breath-taking as they had angels flying from the ceiling, dancers, musicians, and etc. It was in step with some of the Broadway shows. In the midst of all the presentations, they presented the Gospel in a simple yet powerful way.
Then in the evening, we went to HMCC of Chicago. It was not the same – in the size nor the “production,” but it had the same spirit. Pastor Young from GCC came and spoke. He talked about the simplicity of the Christmas message and how we need to respond appropriately in spite of some of the distractions that come our way.
The Christmas message never gets old because it is presented in so many different ways, with so many different styles – but ultimately it is the same message. Gloria in excelsis Deo!