It is really festive when almost 9,000 people gather around Jesus Christ and the gospel He sacrificed Himself for to give to people. The meeting lasted 90 minutes and was an interesting combination of tradition and spirit-filled preaching.
“There’s always an anticipation to hear what’s Kåre Smith has on his heart,” says Gjermund Gangsøy.
Kåre J. Smith held a Bible study on salvation through the life of Jesus and read scripture after scripture to bring out the Bible’s attitude to sin and how we must walk in the spirit in order not to live out the lust that dwells in all people.
“We must not explain away the salvation that Jesus brought. The intention of the gospel is that I should live without sinning, so that the life of Jesus actually becomes my life. That’s what I need to come here for and be encouraged to do,” summarizes Gjermund Gangsøy.
He emphasizes his gratitude for being able to attend the conference and bring his family. He has five children aged 10-19 years.
The same desire for God
There is a feeling seriousness and trust in the meeting hall that is difficult to put into words.
“It’s really something great to experience,” says David Herman (54), who lives just under an hour’s drive from Brunstad. He explains that being present with so many people who have the same desire for God does something very special to the atmosphere.
“For us, this is the highlight of the year. Hearing the preaching from someone who has lived his whole life for God is compelling. You can feel that God is here, and His word works, as it says in Hebrews: It is living, sharp, and effective, and it pierces and judges my thoughts.”
Don’t settle for being pardoned
Naomi Grimes-Borch (49) agrees, emphasizing that she appreciates the exhortation to stay close to God. Originally from Germany, she moved to Copenhagen in 2001. She is overwhelmed, happy, and grateful for what she has experienced.
“I don’t know if it’s the right expression to use, but I feel honored to be chosen – that Jesus wants to be my brother. What’s important to me is to receive grace in time of need, so that there is development in my life, and that I don’t just settle for being pardoned.”
Lyrics Ways of the Lord no. 101
1.
Thanks, loving God, Thou hast called together
A little faithful flock from west and east;
/: And rooted deeply in truth and Spirit
With Christ, O God, our life is one long feast. :/
2.
We thank Thee, God, that by grace and fire,
In Jesus’ blood we come to unity.
/: This is a myst’ry: we serve each other
And thus as worthy vessels honor Thee. :/
3.
Let songs of gladness, like many waters,
Burst forth to glorify the Son of God,
/: That joined to Him we with many others
Shall be His joy, reward of His dear blood. :/
4.
So may the singers, the music makers,
And they who minister God’s holy Word
/: Grow up as pillars in God’s assembly,
That we become just as our precious Lord. :/
5.
So send Thy Spirit, O loving Father;
O may He come, our hearts and minds to fill.
/: A happy flock of like-minded brethren
By Thee made one, we’ll love and serve Thee still. :/
Written by Johan Oscar Smith, 1922.
© Stiftelsen Skjulte Skatters Forlag
