Yes, that Gateway. The one that went through the fire last year after our pastor resigned. The one that lost members, reduced staff, and split families, is now recovering under new leadership.
Yet, here was Brooke. Just like we heard there 8 years ago when the song was new. I was transported to a higher place by the beauty and purity of the sound and the depth of the message.
“What a beautiful name it is, the name of Jesus.”
All the pain of the past year washed away for just a couple minutes as we sang about that matchless name. The dust hasn’t completely settled, and the story isn’t over, but is it ever?
Hands raised; voices lifted. Tears came to some, including Brooke. She must have sung that song 1000 times, yet the words continue to ring true despite the mess of this great big stupid world.
Clearly caught up in the moment, Brooke stepped away from the microphone briefly as the church loudly sang God’s praise. Such a prevailing sense of peace. Such a balm for our weary souls.
What a powerful name it is.
The name of Jesus.