It is hard to believe just five days ago our family along with a group of incredibly dedicated friends traveled to the West Bank community of Marrero in greater New Orleans. We have been absolutely blown away by their love and service to us as they have unpacked, worked on our new home, and helped us settle in to our new city.
While the time so far has been an absolute blur, we know it will take a while to find our rhythm and get assimilated to the area. Yet in these few short days we have already learned some valuable lessons that we pray will go a long way in planting a multiplying church in Marrero:
Spiritual warfare in New Orleans is the real deal.
One of my friends and mentors, George Ross, related the story of his call to New Orleans. An older pastor warned him in not so many words that all the devils that can’t make it in the Big Easy go everywhere else. From the moment we left Florence it has felt like one thing after another has attempted to pull us down. Yet we know that victory already belongs to us through the finished work of Jesus Christ (Colossians 2:15. Ephesians 6:10-20, Romans 8:31-39)
Church planting is not sexy.
Attend all the conferences and read every book, but there is more to church planting than just preaching and singing. You want to practice hospitality? Sit in the hot Louisiana sun and put together a patio set with more nuts and bolts that should be legally allowed. Yet it was in that moment of wanting to throw a table and chairs across the road I was able to meet my new next door neighbor who shared his story and learned of our desire to plant a church. God is always at work whether you are behind a pulpit or an allen wrench.
People respond to kindness.
I have been asked many times what our strategy is for planting in Marrero. While the time will come for core groups and launch dates, for now it is simply getting to know people. Two hours at the coin laundry while your electrical wiring is being replaced gives you plenty of time to try and engage people in conversation. So far it seems to surprise the people in this city that a stranger will offer a kind word or even bother to ask their name. Yet when we do, their faces light up and they respond.
In the coming days our friends will return home and the four of us will settle in to our new lives on the West Bank. We are certain to learn many more lessons. Pray for us to remain teachable and sensitive to the Holy Spirit as we seek His will and direction to reach our new neighbors with the gospel.
And as always, if you would like more information on how to support us in this new adventure check out our page on how to get involved.
Melsons on the Move 