Seeking the presence of the Lord

You would have to be living under a rock if you haven’t heard about the recent revival/awakening at Asbury University in Kentucky.

Just in case you haven’t heard, a small number of students stayed to worship after a regular chapel service at their school, which then led to 16-days of continual and spontaneous worship with thousands of people descending the school from all over the country.

If you are like me, some logistical questions of this impromptu gathering have probably come to mind. Logistics regarding food, water, housing, seating, restrooms, toilet paper, parking, crowd control, rules, agendas, long lines, emergency services… not to mention countless “what-if” scenarios. It seems like an impossible undertaking for even the most talented event coordinator.

Large spontaneous events don’t typically go well, yet when you read attendee stories of this event, there is a common theme of order, gentleness, peace, friendliness, love, humility, and compassion toward one another. People jumping in to volunteer and working together as each new need arose. No one was complaining about the lines. No one was arguing loudly or fighting to be heard. There was a community of praising, singing, sharing of scripture, and prayer.

There was calm in what could have been a chaotic environment because people were united together in the body of Christ. United in giving God glory and working together as they sought to be in His presence.

I did not attend the event, yet I am drawn toward the experience. The idea of a few students obediently seeking the Lord’s presence that led to such a memorable and spontaneous response brings much needed hope and encouragement in today’s world. How about you?

What are some of your take-aways from this revival/awakening event?

Do you ever put pressure on yourself to make a big impact? How does this example change your perspective?

What are some practical ways you seek the presence of the Lord?

Have you ever been part of spontaneous worship? If so, how did that impact you?

Scripture

“Seek the Lord and his strength, seek his presence continually!” Psalm 105:4

“But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.” Matthew 6:33

“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, forever and ever. Amen.” Ephesians 3:20-21

“I do not ask for these only, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, that they may all be one, just as you, Father, are in me, and I in you, that they also may be in us, so that the world may believe that you have sent me.” John 17:20-21