I've been enjoying Transform World Houston these past few days. I just left an amazing prayer meeting. Amazing because of who was there. A group of about 40 international believers from probably 15 different countries were upfront, praying loudly and passionately...not for their own nations, but for mine. Their tears were flowing as they interceded before the Throne of God on behalf of the United States of America.

It was an awesome thing to witness...and then to join in. I had the privilege of inviting the large crowd of American believers to join in with their international brothers and sisters in praying for God to move upon our nation. With much humility, a deep repentance, and confidence in the mercy of God, we cried out for our nation. I left the prayer meeting with hope and expectation. Now my prayer is: "God, multiply prayer meetings like this across our nation. May your people spend much time seeking your face on behalf of your work in our nation."

I guess I'm a little more traditional than I thought I was. Today I went to a very traditional Easter service. I absolutely loved it. I'm still in awe of the experience...and of course, the Lord who prompted the experience. There was a full choir, a wonderful orchestra, and absolutely every one of my favorite "Easter" hymns. The message was a solid, biblical message on the Resurrection of Christ.
Don't get me wrong. I love new stuff. Worship teams, rock bands and new Christ-focused worship music excites me and often leads me into a passionate experience of Christ's Presence. But when it comes to Easter...give me the good old-time religion!

Sitting in the Indy airport waiting to head to Tulsa, OK for a weekend of teaching. The last 6 weeks of ministry have been amazing. Virtually everywhere I have gone, the passion for prayer and response to the teaching has been off the charts. I'm wondering if the financial crisis is finally beginning to have its good effect...that of turning people back to God. Instead of trusting in our IRA's and Wall Street, perhaps we're beginning to trust God.
I heard a good friend say recently that this economic crisis should not be looked at as a test, but a tool. Tests you just endure. Tools you use. "Lord, may this time of economic uncertainty be a tool in your hands to transform you people into a people of true and lasting faith.