A family of churches, together on a mission...

We've just returned from the annual 'Brighton Conference' as it is so often referred to - the newfrontiers International Leaders Conference (Together on a Mission) - gathering several thousand church leaders, and more than 1500 student-aged young people in the 'Mobilise' stream - representing a breath-taking 40 nations!

The two hours in the car provides Richard and I welcome 'space' to worship, pray and finally 'be still' in preparation for all that may await us. It has been rumored that this is the penultimate Brighton Conference in this setting and context. Already it seemed the theme was emerging as a question in our hearts, 'So, what's next, Lord?'.

From the moment we first gathered in the main auditorium of the Brighton Conference Centre, at the first note of the first song, there seemed a newness, a freer expression of praise, a deeper corporate yearning for the presence of our Champion and Saviour, Jesus, to catch us up into His plans and purposes, a greater urgency about the preaching of the word.

The ministry platform was shared once again by young and old, newly emerging and clearly anointed with power and grace, alongside the seasoned and yet evermore passionate older generation of apostolic giants.

A tangible and sweet anointing came again and again, Jesus, Himself touching lives and writing His promises afresh on the hearts of this army of men and women from across the nations. Fortified, comforted, challenged and freshly anointed we sensed the word and the Spirit coming together to propel this beautiful and diverse body of believers forward in renewed fervour - ready in the Spirit to take the ground given to us and see the establishment of the Kingdom all over the world, come what may.

More than ever before, the worship team served to underline, confirm and put voice and expression to the deep work of grace being wrought in hearts across the gathering. Fresh freedom and sensitivity to the gentle leading of the Holy Spirit left hearts tender yet strangely strengthened each time we gathered to sing songs so beautifully crafted and divinely inspired.

I came away with a deep sense of wonder at the privilege of having been brought into the fold to share the journey and adventure of living for the King and joining in gathering of His great inheritance from across the whole earth, until the knowledge of the glory of the Lord covers the earth, as the waters cover the sea.

I'm so thankful for Terry Virgo, our apostle of grace, and for the family of churches that is newfrontiers. It is with great joy and anticipation that I pray, Lord, let Your kingdom come and let Your will be done on earth, in our lives, churches, towns, cities and nations, today, even as it is in heaven.

I would rather be a door-keeper...