It's surprising how much nostalgia I felt walking back into this church today. It’s a strange feeling. This was the first Black megachurch I ever attended, and that was almost 12 years ago. Coming from a small town in Virginia (nope, I’m not a Georgia native 🤷🏾♂️), I was used to the church of my childhood—the church with a few hundred members, where everyone knew everyone and people genuinely did life together.
One thing I still love is a warm church welcome. I think people underestimate the power of a smile, a handshake, and a sincere "glad you're here." Scripture tells us to "welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you" (Romans 15:7). A simple act of kindness can make someone feel seen, valued, and loved. On the other hand, indifference can make a visitor feel like they’re interrupting something instead of being invited into the family of God. 😂
Today's sermon was powerful... POWERFUL, powerful, POWERFUL. The Word was preached with conviction, and it reminded me why Scripture says that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God (Romans 10:17). There is something special about sitting under sound teaching that challenges, encourages, and strengthens your walk with Christ.
I've never been interested in rumors, gossip, or unproven church scandals. The Bible warns us against bearing false witness and entertaining accusations without proper evidence. If something cannot be clearly established, I try not to allow it to take root in my heart. As for Bishop Eddie Long, I never personally felt anything negative in my spirit regarding him. My only hesitation has always been that I've never been particularly attached to titles. I care more about the fruit than the title.
Back then, I lived in Newnan, Union City, or Johns Creek depending on the season of life, and this church felt like too far of a drive. Now that I live in Conyers, it's practically around the corner. Funny how God changes our circumstances and sometimes brings us back to places we never expected to revisit.
Yes, I'm still a member of World Changers International Church, but I'm taking a short break while preparing to begin teaching children. I'm excited about the opportunity to serve and pour into the next generation.
And no, that's not my house. 😂 I work at Havertys Furniture and am scheduled to work on Sundays, but they've graciously allowed me to attend church. In return, I do my best not to take advantage of that favor. Faithfulness matters, whether in ministry or in the workplace.
One thing I'm especially excited about is getting my first Study Bible. Trying to read it like a regular book was wearing me out! 🤦🏾♂️ But I'm learning that studying God's Word is different from simply reading it. The more I dig into Scripture, the more I realize there is always something new to learn, and that's a journey I'm grateful to be on.
Returning to a church after many years brings a flood of memories and growth reflections. When I walked back into that familiar Black megachurch, it was more than just a place of worship—it was a community that shaped my faith and understanding of fellowship. One striking aspect I’ve realized in my faith journey is how significant a warm welcome is. It’s not just about smiles or handshakes; it’s about embodying the biblical call to "welcome one another as Christ has welcomed you" (Romans 15:7). Having felt both warmth and indifference in different spiritual settings, I can attest that a sincere welcome can anchor someone in belonging and inspire them to grow. Another powerful experience is sitting under strong, convicting preaching. The sermon reminded me how faith is nurtured by consistently hearing the Word of God (Romans 10:17). It’s one thing to read Scripture casually, but it’s another to study it deeply. My recent excitement about acquiring a Study Bible has been transformative. Instead of skimming through pages, I’m discovering tools like cross-references, commentary notes, and word studies that enrich understanding and make learning Scripture an ongoing journey. Honestly, reading the Bible like a novel was exhausting and left me feeling shallow in my spiritual growth. Balancing faith commitments with daily life, like working at Havertys Furniture and attending church on Sundays, has taught me the importance of faithfulness in both ministry and the workplace. This dual dedication helps reinforce integrity and consistency. Moreover, preparing to serve as a children’s teacher is a joyful step in giving back and investing in the next generation’s faith. The church community I revisited, along with many inspiring individuals (some named in displayed acknowledgments like Marilyn Richardson, Barbara C. Sharpe, and others), exemplify how a vibrant congregation can nurture diverse growth and mutual support. Overall, revisiting this church has renewed my appreciation for real connections, sound teaching, and the lifelong learning journey rooted in Scripture. For anyone navigating their faith, I encourage embracing both heartfelt fellowship and disciplined study as pillars for spiritual maturity.
