New Skill Unlocked!

Yesterday marked only the second time in my 28 years that I used a sewing machine. The first time was rushed. It was during our youth ministry revival weekend in 2023. The dance ministry didn't have enough time to buy a new set of flags to match the fiery theme of the revival, inspired by Acts 2, the day of Pentecost. That year, we named our revival 'Outpour,' and yes, the Spirit of God poured out on all who were willing to recieve. On the last day of the revival, that Sunday morning, the Holy Spirit woke me up with the urge to create flags. It wasn't the first time I awoke with a sense of purpose, heeding the voice of the Lord, but it might have been the first time I felt unprepared for the task. I sought confirmation from Jesus, noting the limited time I had to complete the task, but the Lord was insistent. He wanted me to make the worship flags for that morning's service.

So, that very morning, while the whole family was preparing to go to service, I quickly asked my mom to teach me how to use her sewing machine. She was surprised, of course, but happy to teach me. The lesson was rushed, as you might expect, and the flags were crooked. Additionally, I hadn't had enough time to fold any hems, so the fabric frayed all over the dining room where I made them and later in the sanctuary. Ironically, the frayed ends resembled blazing fire at the ends of the red and orange flags, and the Spirit of God moved powerfully throughout the church that day. The point is, although they weren't perfect, they were anointed and used for the glory of God.

I recently brought those firey flags back out in a spontaneous worship session I had right in my backyard. You can find the video linked from my YouTube channel here:

The same urgent desire to dance came over me that day and I initially headed for a newer set of flags I had bought at a dance conference last year. I heard the Lord tell me to go outside and this was not the first time my neighbors would see me dancing in public. As I was leaving the house, though, my eyes landed on those handmade worship tools, and I understood what the Lord was asking of me. He wanted me to have the same faith now that I had when I first agreed to make them. He must be getting ready to walk me right into another uncomfortable period of growth. I began to remember, that despite having no machine experience, the vision of the flags and the Lord's voice were more than enough. The equipment was already available, and my mother, who was my destiny helper at the time, was ready like a teacher waiting for a student for me to ask her. All I needed to do was say "Yes".

My obedience didn't stop with the spontaneous worship session. Yesterday, the Lord led me to a sewing class that was happening in my community. I met the teacher, Shama, a week before her class and I knew instantly upon meeting her that I had to be there. So there I was, using a sewing machine for the second time in my life.

Before yesterday, I would never have claimed to know how to sew. I could mend since childhood, thanks to my grandmother, but actually sewing and creating something was beyond me, even after making those flags. I knew that was under the leading of the Holy Spirit. However, after an afternoon spent mastering the basic stitch and zig-zag stitch, I must admit a new skill has been unlocked. I can now envision the garments! How the fabric will flow as we dance, how the light will reflect off the sequins. I am amazed at what a single class can achieve. Follow along Faithful People and I hope you feel led to join into your own journey to live a fruitful life, stewarding all the gift the Lord has given to you.