…“In Your presence there is fullness of joy; In Your right hand there are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11 NASB

When I think of the word ‘Overflow’ I am put in mind in some churches rooms are opened when the crowds are so big there are not enough seats for the people gathering. “We opened up the overflow,” when the pews were full to the brim and more people were pouring in the doors.

It must have been like that when Jesus would visit a household and the people from the town would gather, listening at the doors and windows, having to open up the very roof to pass a sick friend into the room to receive prayer.

The word instantly brings the excitement of gathering and being together. There is a draw, and wonder of being in a place together with like-minded people, being of one heart, one mind, one accord. Seeking God together. Worshipping God in one Spirit.

Over the past 2 years corporate gathering has taken such a hit. So many things to be wary of, so many other things clamoring for our attention. Masks or no masks. Vaccines or no vaccines. Most services went online in order to accommodate. Our sanctuaries stood at about a quarter full. Now, even though things have gotten better, many have still not returned. I no longer have to worry about finding a seat in the sanctuary, so many have decided to remain home.

I miss them…

For there is something truly miraculous that takes place in our midst when we gather together unto Him. There is a release one to another of love, and faith, joy and fellowship. His presence manifests in our gathering. And in His presence, He knits our hearts.

And we need that. We need to remember that we need one another, and that in His presence together we are strengthened. One brings a hymn. One brings a gift. One brings a spiritual song. And as the Holy Spirit pours out among us there is overflow.

Overflow of faith. Overflow of belonging. Overflow of hope and reassurance that together we will get through these terrible times to the other side. We remember that we are not alone.

If you have found yourself not yet returning to your gatherings, if you have become more used to isolation than of walking into a sanctuary to find your place among the throng, may I lovingly encourage you today to try again. It may be time. I want to be there, too.

~ Debbie Ecker