I am coming back. You have my word on that. My word gives some clues as to what to look for, and people have taken these and built highly detailed scenarios about how it will happen. None of them are correct. Many have even set dates and suffered the embarrassment of watching them come and go. The problem is that if you can imagine it and articulate it, then it is too small. I created the world in a week and I have had all the time since then to stage my triumphal return. It will be the ultimate event, full of redemption and love. You will finally know the meaning of the word ‘awesome’. Stay tuned. 

Do you see repentance as an event? This is something that happens with little or no duration, such as a realization that things are not working for you and a conscious decision to turn to me. This is a valid understanding, but you can also see repentance as a process, and this implies duration. Have you ever repented only to have to go back and repent again concerning the same issue? My work in you is one of total transformation, and this takes time. Forgiveness is available with no delay, but my work in you doesn’t end there. Be open to being transformed by the renewing of your mind and be patient while I complete the good work I have begun in you. 

Are you willing to do an experiment? Pray for the people you meet. If this is scary you don’t have to tell them what you are doing, but I will still hear your prayers. You don’t even have to speak to them. You can do this for strangers in a crowd. What do you pray for if you don’t know what they need? Everyone needs something and is fighting a battle of some sort. Even if you don’t know what it is, I do. Engage yourself in prayer and let the overflow be directed at the people you encounter. You can always pray for my favor and blessing upon them and for the knowledge and presence of me to increase in them. Your really can’t go wrong but you have to make the initiative. Try it and see what happens. 

Do you have a plan in mind for the growth of your church? Does it involve programs that are targeted at particular needs; a something for everyone approach? Churches can become busy activity centers in providing things to attract outsiders to come. This is the opposite of the original church growth program. My followers expected that all of their familiar Jewish traditions and customs would continue for the new believers, but the Spirit led them to let go of most of most of their customary practices for the church to grow. Could you be approaching this question from the wrong direction? What are you willing to let go of to see growth in your church?