As dusk settled over a quiet, remote village, a soft glow emerged from a cross atop a simple building. Clear voices rose on the evening air, singing, "Lord, these are my hands, these are my heart…" The melodies rang bright against the cold wind, illuminating our hearts and quickening our steps toward the church.
From the outside, the building resembled any ordinary home. Were it not for the faintly glowing cross, one might have overlooked it entirely. Stepping through the doors, the main hall revealed a warm, peaceful space. Rows of chairs were filled with believers arriving steadily. At the front, church workers led the congregation in silent prayer, preparing hearts for worship.
"This era does not lack praise or teaching; it lacks prayer," reflected one church leader. True to this vision, the church emphasizes prayer at the center of every ministry. Worship leaders sometimes fast and pray over song selections for Sunday services. Remarkably, even without prior consultation with the preacher, the songs often align perfectly with the sermon's theme—a quiet, tender demonstration of the Holy Spirit's guidance.
Around seven o'clock, the service began. Pastor Y preached a sermon on "The Importance of Vision." She explained that in every era, God calls a group of people to fulfill His purposes. Believers must not only know God but also discern and follow the Holy Spirit's current guidance, reflecting on whether they are walking within God's calling. "God resolves our difficulties not as an end, but to lead us into a deeper knowledge of Him and to glorify His name," she said.
Using the example of Adam's creation, Pastor Y illustrated that humans, formed from dust, became living beings when God breathed life into them. Similarly, believers are created to carry God's glory, allowing Christ's life to manifest through them. Just as Noah, Abraham, and Moses were chosen and entrusted with missions in their respective eras, today God calls His people to bear witness in His name.
Reflecting on the church's nearly twenty-year journey, Pastor Y shared that God initially moved them to establish a congregation "where God reigns." Over time, this vision has become increasingly clear: God values not what men can accomplish, but their willingness to let Him reign among them and accomplish His purposes in this generation.
"Vision is not human imagination; it is God revealing His eternal will through Scripture," she said. In a world flooded with information and distractions—from artificial intelligence to endless short videos—a clear spiritual vision helps believers discern what matters to Christ and what merely wastes life. It also guides words, hearts, and daily living, allowing God to truly take the throne in one's life.
Pastor Y challenged the congregation: When God's will is revealed, are we willing to let go of our habits and preferences so that the Lord can reign fully? This question confronted every believer.
After the sermon, the church welcomed newcomers. A sister held a sign that read, "Welcome, New Friends," while another gently invited, "If this is your first time here, please come forward. Welcome—you are loved by Jesus." Though no new visitors arrived that evening, she smiled and encouraged the congregation, urging them to persist in sharing God's love and salvation so more people could join this spiritual family.
As the service concluded, members departed with smiles and quiet order. Those needing prayer stayed behind, speaking with Pastor Y, who listened patiently and prayed with them. The church radiated a calm yet steadfast strength.
This gentleness extended into daily ministry. Immediately after the service, sisters instinctively divided tasks—sweeping, mopping—with practiced ease. This voluntary cooperation stems from a long-established pastoral structure: small groups organized by area, living out the rhythm of "hearing God on Sunday, walking in His ways during the week."
Another pastor explained that each small group meets weekly to share insights from the sermon and discuss how to practice faith in daily life. Ministries are organized within these groups, allowing every believer to understand their responsibilities and participate actively. "Each member feels a true sense of belonging, as if their spiritual 'registration' is realized in their small group and family—they are seen and cared for," he said.
In one corner, a sister who owns a barbershop was cutting hair for those in need. Conversation and gentle laughter filled the air—a simple yet profound expression of love.
As my friend and I left the church, night had fully fallen. The cross above the building continued to shine quietly, illuminating the path home and the warmth and hope in our hearts.
(The names of the church and the staff are not disclosed for safety reasons.)
Originally published by the Gospel Times
- Edited and translated by Poppy Chan
