A Story I Can't Believe Happened...
The conclusion I have come to...
For any and all of you who read the original post, I have to say this…I think discouragement is part of life. And we need to learn how to deal with it. And even at the late age of 70 I’m still not perfect in that area.
I may not have known WHY what I had written about here actually took place, but I do know this…after really thinking about it, Woodland Hills wasn’t at fault. One person, at the least was at fault and that was because both of us couldn’t communicate on grounds that we could agree upon. So I have decided that since all the people that go to Woodland Hills aren’t to blame, not in the least, I am going to say that what took place between me and Scott, is between me and Scott and not the rest of the fellowship. I have to do this…forgive Scott and just let it drop there. And I really do.
So, for those of you that have commented here, thank you for doing so. Those of you who may have seen me being a bit resentful, you may be right. I see myself as having been discouraged and that really isn’t a reason to keep this up. So to those of you who have read this before I edited it right now…I see this differently and realize that the doors that may have been closed at Woodland Hills were needed so that doors in other places could be opened up. So as I close this down…be blessed with this song that Father gave me to sing so many years ago. And may the Creator of the Universe, Yahweh Elohim bestow unimaginable blessings on YOU through His blessed Son and Our Savior Yahshua the Christ.
Hi Mark. With all due respect, I read your article but am a little confused. How did you approach church personnel with your offer to sing? Not to be argumentative, but I can see the church's point of view. They don't know you from Adam. They haven't had a chance to get to know your character. Did you even attend their New Members class? Once a church allows someone to step onto their stage in an official capacity, you automatically command the respect/authority as a church representative. It is not something a church should take lightly. Imagine if a stranger approached a church and said: "I'm a teacher. I am great with kids. You don't know me but let me watch the children in your Sunday school class". It would be unwise for them to accept this offer without vetting the person. I'm reminded of Luke 14:10 "When you are invited, go and sit in the lowest place, so that when your host comes he may say to you, 'Friend, move up higher.' Then you will be honored." As much as we all chafe against procedures, sometimes they are put in place for a reason. If God is calling you to do this, He's aware of the church's guidelines. I would recommend apologizing. Going through the process. Let them get to know your sparkling personality. And then wait for them to ask you to come sing. Just my two cents. I don't know you or anybody at the Woodland church so please take this in the light with which it is shared. I pray for peace between you all.
Sorry this happened to you Mark... Perhaps the elders at Woodland Hills Family Church should have read Mattew 18. But God does often move in mysterious ways. Perhaps you are being protected from something...