During our recent time away in Exuma, it was important to me that we found a place to worship.  At home, we attend an Assemblies of God church … and I literally couldn’t believe my eyes, when on an earlier trip to Exuma, I saw an AG sign.

At the time, I asked around, but no one seemed to know much about it, so I dismissed it and never called to attend.  But I tucked it away … knowing we’d for sure check it out during our month stay on the island.

When that first Sunday came, and we drove to the church … I really had no idea what to expect.  It was tucked back a bit and in a sort of empty “strip mall.”  So not a strip mall, as there’s no such thing on the island, but really the best way I can think of to describe it.

The door to the small building opened and we were greeted by beautiful worship music {in fact, some of my favorite worship songs!}, and beautiful, friendly people too!

Being on a small island in the middle of nowhere Bahamas … I seriously had no idea what to expect.  But I can tell you this … boy-oh-boy was I pleasantly surprised.

What is such a gentle reminder to me and the gift I’d like to unwrap for you today … God’s presence can be found anywhere it’s sought.  And let me tell you, God’s presence was alive and thriving in this small 750 square foot Bahamian church.

In the photo below {right image}, I’m literally standing at the doorway taking the photo … that gives you an idea of the small size of this house of God.

I had bible study last night and the series we’re discussing talked about the importance of planting yourself in a local church.  We talked a bit about the difference between “shopping” for a church or knowing it was a place where God wants you to plant yourself.

For me … I know I’m in a great place of worship when I can feel God’s presence.  When I can feel the anointing of the Holy Spirit on the pastor.  When I’m filled with Holy Ghost goose-bumps at what’s being said.  Or I feel that sweet tugging of conviction in my heart.

You can be {and I’ve been} in a large church, mid-sized church, or very small church … and if God’s presence isn’t there, I don’t believe you’ll feel any of the things I just mentioned.

And what’s the importance of being in a church you ask?  God’s community can’t grow if we are not in it, to help it grow.

So let me tell you some more about this wonderful place we found to worship.

The husband and wife {Kevin & Karla} that formed the church, felt a calling from God to start an island ministry for Him.  You can read more about their story on their website.  And I’d encourage you to watch the video on the home page too.  They moved from Maine with their children … I should say, they sailed.  They’re currently living on their boat, docked in Exuma.

I’m in awe and inspired by what this family has done.  They opened the first service with 3 people and today they have 45 some people that attend.

They bring speakers, pastors and missionaries from all over … to come to this little unknown island and minister to it’s people.  Incredible.

They have men’s groups.  Just started a woman’s bible study {studying Beth Moore}.  They’ve started a discipleship class that’s been only available in Nassau, which has been hard for people to get to … so they brought the ministry to Exuma.

They go door-to-door ministering to people, meeting their needs, bringing food, praying over them, singing for them.  I’m super proud of Taylor, who had an opportunity to go with them on one of these ministry trips.  She spent time with them one day as they went door-to-door and got to witness and take part first-hand in what the power of God can do.

I think about what a privilege and gift we have to openly attend church.  To worship as we wish.  That in itself is a gift.  And sadly, it’s taken so for granted.  There are others around the world that literally give their lives to read the Word or hear the gospel.

We are blessed.  And I am thankful.

Clear Water Assembly of God … I am praying for you, I am praying for your people … and I’m filled with anticipation to watch your growth!