I stood at the microphone with one minute notice that I was to do the "opening" for our worship service this morning!
Fortunately, I had something in mind that I might have spoken about during the sharing time later on...so I faced the milling congregation and called folks to find a seat.  Like most things at Healing Hearts, we're slow to start because people are visiting and enjoying one another.  I began to speak anyways, speaking loud enough to catch attention and be heard above the crowd.
As I shared about the kind of week I had and what God had done for me, I was encouraged by the ones who were listening and acknowledging they "heard" my heart.  But there was still a low-level buzz in the sanctuary and part of me felt like it is always a battle to gain order and be an "organized" ministry!
But what became apparent later on during the service was the reason for the noise.  Not any disrespect of people for God, nor the distraction of it being "Grey Cup" Sunday held in Regina...it was because we were having a "baby dedication" today!  Three new little ones had been born into our church family and today was to be the day the parents were dedicating these babies to God.
One family is new to Healing Hearts.  The young parents (with four children under 6 years old) stood at the front and declared their desire to teach their children the ways of the Lord.  While the pastors prayed, the three that could walk began a follow-the-leader game over and around the front row of chairs.  We knew they needed prayer & support to raise these busy little ones for Jesus!  They have shown forth a commitment to the church and ministry here and we are excited to see how God will use them in serving.
A single mom with two sons and a baby girl in her arms, stood before her church family to dedicate all three to the Lord.  She has challenges to raise these young ones without the help and partnership of a husband. She showed great courage and perseverance to bring forth her family to declare faith in Christ.  We're so proud of her and want to surround her with support.
Lastly, a young couple who have been "raised" within our ministry were now standing before us all and the Lord to dedicate their newest baby.  We have watched them grow up in the church; now they were devoting their children to be raised in the same church.  How thrilling to see Grandpa dedicate granddaughter and have another pastor pray over them all!
Yes, the noise and commotion of babies in a church is a bit distracting...but what a blessing to have that life and freshness in the church family.  I'll speak a little louder any day just to experience the joy of a vibrant time in the house of the Lord.