I just learned that for 2010, Transformation Church was the 2nd fastest growing church by percentage and the 14th fastest growing church in numbers and percentage of growth in America, according to Outreach magazine.
As I read the words I just typed, something happens in the deep caverns of my soul that seizes my heart and floods my eyes with tears.
Why am I crying?
I’m crying because every number represents a person who is immensely valuable to God and who is made in His image.
I’m crying because every number represents a person for whom the eternal Son of God died and shed His precious, life-giving blood.
I’m crying because the love I feel for the precious people God has placed under my shepherding is microscopic compared to the uncaused, infinite, never-giving-up, unending, “always for you,” unshakable, beautiful love that He has for them.
I’m crying because I remember sitting in Starbucks with my wife and two others, crying and laughing because we had no money to plant a church. We had no option but to trust Jesus. Who else has the words of eternal life?
I’m crying because of the number of amazing servant-leaders and Transformers (members of TC) that I have the honor of serving and serving with at Transformation Church. They are my heroes!
I’m crying because of the life-transformation that I’ve experienced as a leader. God has placed me in impossible positions as a leader. But what was impossible for me was possible for Him. I’ve seen Jesus in a new light and now experience Him at a new level of intimacy and dependency.
I’m crying because I’ve seen drug addicts get addicted to Jesus.
I’m crying because I’ve seen marriages that were on the verge of collapse get restored.
I’m crying because I’ve seen teenagers drag their parents to Transformation Church.
I’m crying because people said, “Why waste your time trying to plant a multi-ethnic church?” And now God has made Transformation Church into a thriving congregation that reflects the ethnic diversity of heaven.
I’m crying because God is just getting started with Transformation Church.
THANK YOU, JESUS! I WILL NEVER TAKE FOR GRANTED WHAT YOU’RE DOING TO DISPLAY YOUR GLORY!
I’m marinating on that,
Pastor Derwin
