Revive Us Again

Upon a suggestion by Melissa of "Mel's Quiet Thoughts" blog, I am writing about revivals.

In rural northwest Missouri where I now live, revivals are alive and well. If you are not familiar with the term, it is a series of meetings with music and preaching for the purpose of renewing and refreshing the relationship we have with God through Jesus. It is also a time to share God's love and the message of salvation with others. In fact, many people will testify to the fact that they gave their heart and life to Jesus at a revival meeting. Some "senior saints" have reminded me in the past that revivals used to last two to three weeks back in the old days, but today a week-long revival is a long one. Usually 3-4 days and sometimes a weekend.
I have, over the past 10 years or so, led music for several revivals (I would guess 20-25.) They are always different depending on the church and people involved. Some churches are mostly young people and some mostly old. Some churches have a new pastor, and some have a seasoned veteran at the helm. Some have revivals several times a year and some haven't held a revival in a long time. There are several thing that they all have in common though. They are all seeking to be closer to God. They are all hoping to have people experience salvation. Some other elements of a revival that I have noticed is that some people understand the importance of prayer before a revival. It is easy to see that those churches who embrace this idea and that especially pray for weeks before a revival, really experience great things, supernatural things. I think it is because it brings them to the realization that revival does not come from the music or the preaching but from God himself and our willingness to submit our time and efforts to Him.
If there is not a revival meeting near you, have your own revival. Pray for God to renew your relationship with Him, praise him through singing, seek understanding by reading the Bible. You will be renewed! You will have revival in your own heart.

Maybe this will get you going...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJaU5-OdBaA