September 4, 2025

Dear Central Church, 

I love it when the Lord answers the prayers of his people. Last Sunday was a genuine move of the Holy Spirit, and it was an answer to prayer. People were seeking the Lord at the altars, being anointed with oil for healing and encouragement, and passionately worshipping the Lord. 

This move of God reminds me of this moment in which Moses had an encounter with the Lord at the tabernacle. The glory of God would descend like a cloud as Moses ministered before the Lord, and look what happened: 

11 The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua son of Nun did not leave the tent. (Exodus 33:11) 

Joshua did not leave the tent…he wanted to be close to Jesus. 

When we have these kinds of encounters, it changes us. I spoke with someone this week who was trying to describe to me what they felt in last Sunday’s service. With tears in their eyes, they simply said, “I can’t describe it, but I felt close to God.” 

I believe God is sending a great revival, and it’s not just at Central Church but across our country and the world. I hear accounts of what God is doing in other places, and churches are experiencing extended seasons of renewal.

As we walk in this season of renewal, here are 7 hallmarks of what I believe a genuine revival looks like. 

Emphasis on Jesus and the Word:
There is a clear focus on exalting Jesus and a renewed desire for the Bible and sound doctrine. 

Deep Conviction & Repentance:
Individuals experience a strong conviction over personal and corporate sin, leading to lament and repentance. 

Renewed Passion for Prayer:
The church is marked by a fervent and unceasing passion for prayer. 

Manifest Presence of God:
A powerful, distinct sense of God's presence, glory, and nearness is felt by participants. 

Spiritual Renewal & Love:
A heightened sense of spiritual awareness with great joy and love for neighbor is evident in the congregation. 

Purposeful Mission:
Christians are re-ignited with a passion to share their faith and tell their story. They have a real burden for those far from God. . 

Callings to Ministry & Missions:
A surge in individuals feeling called to ministry and missionary service.  

Will you join me in praying for these things? I see evidence of them in many different areas of our church, but like Joshua, I want to linger in this season for as long as the Lord allows! 

See you Sunday!

Until He’s Finished,
Pastor Mark