I realise there are very serious threats to sheep within our flocks, we should be on guard. I know that there are theological distinctions that need to be defined and defended, we need rigorous debate. But can I tell you what I saw today?

I saw a 70 year old woman drop by our church to sharpen colouring pencils so that the little children could do their Bible story lessons next Sunday.

I saw a single Mum photocopying her lesson plan as she prepared to visit our local school where she runs religious education classes.

I saw a group of 14 teenagers gather after school to brainstorm the program for this Term’s children’s outreach program they run.

I saw a brand new Christian share her testimony for the first time. Then I heard her husband, who is completing a ‘Exploring Christianity’ course with one of our Elders, ask, “When can I share my story?”

I saw someone weeping as they bowed their head with another. I saw a single woman carrying a young baby so that the tired mother could chat with others over a cup of tea.

I saw pews of people with Bibles strewn across their laps, eager for the Word. I saw hands raised in worship, knees bent in worship, seats filled in worship.

I saw exhausted mothers who open their hearts to children who’ve been abandoned and abused, wipe the tears from their eyes and embrace again the very ones who push them away.

I saw a man hold the hand of his dying wife as they sat together under the sound of the gospel, both clinging to the hope they have in Christ.

I saw a friend ask forgiveness of another. A wife holding the hand of her husband who was estranged from her just a few years ago. A father whispering prayers of faith for a son who has wandered far from home and not yet returned.

I know there is much to be fearful of, much to mourn about the state of faith in this world, but take heart my friend—Jesus is building his Church, and the gates of hell have not, nor will they, frustrate his plans for her.