Nycki and I recently returned from Johannesburg, South Africa, where we had the privilege of representing The Woodlands Methodist Church at the General Conference of the Global Methodist Church (GMC). It was an amazing, Holy Spirit-filled time, and honestly, we are still processing all we experienced, but I came home with three things especially on my heart.

First, we truly are a global church. We worshipped alongside brothers and sisters from across Africa, Korea, China, the Philippines, Latin America, Europe and the United States, each bringing different languages, cultures and expressions of worship, yet united by the same Lord. I couldn’t help but think of John’s vision in Revelation 7:9: “And there before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne.” For a few days in Johannesburg, it literally felt like we were catching a small glimpse of that picture of heaven here on earth. Many nations and cultures. One church. One mission. One Lord.

Second, the leadership in the GMC is strong. This General Conference marked an important moment as we elected and consecrated our first regular Assembly of Bishops. I left grateful for the men and women God has raised up to lead our denomination and excited about the humility, wisdom and missional hearts they bring to this next season.

And third, I was reminded why we joined this denomination. The GMC is unapologetically orthodox, deeply Wesleyan, committed to the authority of Scripture and passionate about making disciples of Jesus Christ. There’s an awakening that’s happening that is so very beautiful. And here’s what amazes me: How many people get to help give breath to a new denomination in their lifetime?

We do.

Church, we are living through the early chapters of something God is building, and The Woodlands Methodist Church gets to be part of it.

I came home from South Africa grateful, encouraged and more convinced than ever that God has placed us in this moment for a reason.

To God be the glory!