So we headed out to church this morning. Now, for the most part i do not like going to church. Why, you ask? Well for me I hate being bored and church can be the mother of boredom at times.

Of course, some churches tend to over-compensate. They try to “entertain” the whole service, which is almost comic. So I’m always leery when I attend a new church.

So last week we went to the Vista, and it was really good. Then we went today, and it was even better.

Here is a few reasons why I like Vista:

1. Justin Cofield Band led worship. Now these guys travel like 150 times a year (or something like that) leading worship at other churches, camps and venue’s. Usually when I hear bands like these are leading worship for a church plant I get a little worried; you know, I don’t want worship to feel like a concert.

I hung out with Justin this past week and this dude is the real deal. He really cares about the church and wants to see God do something great here in Austin.

So this morning was the first time I heard them lead, they did great. The worship was more about God than the band; I dunno, they just did a great job keeping the focus on Jesus. Mad props to those guys. Great worship.

2. Jeff speaks well. He’s funny, theologically on target and brings knowledge and wisdom in his message. What I love is his passion, he really believes you can do something great. I guess I feel like he really cares and means what he says. He’s not just going through the emotions of pastoring and preaching.

3. It was not just a service but an experience. The church is simple, no bells and whistles to impress anyone. All they do is worship and speak, but they do it well. That being said, I felt like today at church was an “experience.” I did not just hear worship songs (boring) and another sermon (boring). Instead, I felt like I hung out with a bunch of people that really care and really want to see God do something.

4. The people. This is a multi-generational church. They are real, friendly and caring. I do not feel like I have to put on my Sunday mask when i walk into the place. If you know me, you know that my life can be somewhat of a MESS. *SIGH* And I do not think the people at this church really care about that. They embrace messy.

5. Culture. I honestly think the church cares more about how they can help me then how I can help them. There is a good chance that someday down the road, we might become “official” partners in ministry. But the culture seems to be very outward focused…A “how can we help you” culture.

6. Kids ministry is great. My kids enjoy going to the church. They even helped Bailey memorize Ecc 4:9.

Anyhow, it seems strange that I went to church in the “suburbs” at an elementary school, but it just felt different. And different is good. And it did not SUCK!
Peace & Love from Austin

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