Sunday, August 5, 2007

Mosaic



The Los Angeles highways are nearly manageable early on Sunday mornings, so I made the drive from Lomita up to Pasadena in about 40 minutes, arriving at William Carey University and Mosaic about 15 minutes early. What I encountered there was extraordinary. (Note the link to Mosaic on this blog.)

I was one of the first to enter the auditorium. It was dark save a brilliantly lit stage and set of three large screens down front. Techno music beat in the background and announcements about upcoming Mosaic events, servant projects, Bible classes and small groups cycled on the screens. Soon the first musicians took their spots and invited those present to stand. As I turned I was amazed to see young folks streaming down all aisles. Within minutes the space harbored several thousand worshippers whose average age I would guess to be about 24. There were three songs offered...loud and energetic. Some sang. Others clapped. Others observed and prayed. A second band tag teamed and took the stage where a tremendously talented African American woman sang her version of Don Henley's "The Heart of the Matter." I had never considered this song from a Christian perspective before. It was dynamic.

Erwin McManus then emerged for a time of teaching. He wore a white collared shirt open in front and untucked (In case you haven't heard, "out" is "in") and jeans with a hole in one knee. He sat upon a black stool in a spotlight and for 40 minutes (about the same length as Pastor Stephen's sermons), without a note, spoke about spiritual warfare. The young worshippers in attendance listened carefully, following along in their Bibles. An offering was taken to which only "followers of Jesus Christ" were asked to contribute, several more announcements were made and all were invited to a 10-minute party outside in order to get acquainted with the ministry. The Pasadena site is but one of four where Mosaic will "happen" this weekend. If you visit their link you can listen to a podcast of McManus' presentations...today's offering will likely be available soon.

Then, with the help of Google Maps, I made my way across town to Fuller Seminary and checked into my room in preparation for this week's class. With over 3,200 pages of reading completed and ten reports written, I am ready. Bring it on.

Despite the front desk clerks insistence that the wireless router on site was not operative, I have found a connection and should be able to stay in touch this week. I pray that all was well with worship at Atonement this weekend. I am sorry to have missed the opportunity to experience worship with both Rick and Alex Deasley at the helm. What a treat that must've been. It will be good to be with you again next week.

I see on CNN Weather you are in the middle of a heatwave at home. A good week to be in Pasadena, I suppose. Prayers I send you way and will surely accept any you have to offer in return.

1 comment:

Unknown said...

3200 pages is VERY GOOD start. I need to tell Lindsey and Candice, so they can be motivated.

Enjoy the weather in California.