Horizons Learning to Fly

Many of us remember learning to ride a bike.  For me at least, it wasn't a pretty journey; I still have scars on my knees from those falls.  But eventually my wobbly jaunts down the sidewalk and into the neighbor's fence turned into hoping curbs and races with the neighbor kids.  It just took some time and practice.

Just yesterday (June 29th), Horizons had its 2nd annual "Love Lincoln" day.  We essentially cancelled our worship services, took only as long in the worship center as it took us to get centered and instructed, and then we went out into the community to love people.  Some went downtown to talk with those currently without housing.  Some went and handed out water and small gestures of kindness at the farmers market.  Some visited residents and staff at a retirement living community.  The list goes on.  But regardless of what we did, the point was to love as Jesus loved--to get beyond the church walls and experience worship on the ground instead of in the stadium seats.

It was an AWESOME Sunday.  Guests at Horizons for the first time joined groups and went out to love on Lincoln.  Many of us who are a little out of practice or the habit had a chance to see God work through us once again in bold and subtle ways.  Smiles were given and received, seed money was spent, neighbors were greeted, hands were held, and in most all cases, Jesus was present or shared through our hearts and words.  Praise God!

But getting a church into the practice of loving on others isn't easy.  It's a lot like learning to ride a bike.  We're still a little wobbly.  I'm pretty sure we have a couple skinned knees (possibly even literally).  Several people stayed away for one reason or another or walked out of church once they learned of the day's activities.  But it's worth it.  Nothing grows the heart, the soul, or the nearness to Jesus the way sharing his love with others will.

And some day soon, Love Lincoln at Horizons will be hoping curbs, racing neighbors, and making the community even more awesome than now!


More to come!

Jason <><