Larry Henderson joined the Well Community as Development Director in June and has been spending time with our members to get to know them. In a special guest post, he writes about a “wow moment” he witnessed at a recent Thursday Night Life worship service.
Today, after a challenging devotion centered on the topic of forgiveness, Ms. Senter asked if we could sing. What followed was one of the most powerful and Spirit-filled moments I have witnessed in my career.
Without hesitation, Well members Richard and Lanika began singing a deeply moving gospel song. Within moments, other members joined in, and I joined as well, as the room became filled with voices praising God. Members lifted their hands in worship, sang with joy and celebrated God’s goodness together.
One of the most touching moments for me was watching Gary, who is always very quiet, softly singing while gently raising his hand to the Lord in worship. Witnessing him openly express his faith was incredibly moving. At the same time, Lucy and Ms. Senter were dancing in the Spirit, creating an atmosphere filled with genuine joy, praise and gratitude.
Coming from highly structured corporate and government environments, this experience was a profound reminder that some of life’s greatest lessons happen outside of agendas, policies and procedures. Watching individuals who have overcome tremendous hardships pause to worship, express gratitude and celebrate God’s faithfulness was both humbling and inspiring.
The praise and worship also sparked a meaningful discussion. Following the singing, Well member Gerald suggested that we incorporate a regular testimony service into our programs, allowing members the opportunity to share the blessings God has placed in their lives. It was a wonderful idea that reflects the strength of our community and the importance of encouraging one another through personal stories of faith and hope.
We often become so focused on structure and processes that we lose sight of our greater purpose—to encourage, uplift and walk alongside people through life’s challenges. Today, our Well members did exactly that for me. They reminded me to be grateful, to recognize how truly blessed I am and to never underestimate the power of faith, community and the human spirit.
I will carry today’s experience with me as a lasting reminder that meaningful service is not only about what we do for others, but also about the ways they transform us in return. Today’s worship was more than a song—it was a living testimony of God’s presence, the healing power of forgiveness and the hope that is found when a community comes together in faith.