The Transformative Power of the Local Church: My Journey to Faith
By Aaron Joseph Hall
I’ll never forget October 29th, 2009—it was the day Jesus saved me and began a work of transformation in my life. I was saved at a tiny little church on the outskirts of the town where I live. It wasn’t fancy, it didn’t have a production budget, and it wasn’t very big. It was just a small building where the CHURCH gathered to minister to the Lord.
A friend had invited me to church that night. It was the night that would change me forever.
I left a new person—as a new creation because of my encounter with Jesus.
I’ve never been the same.
That night I saw the importance of the local church. I was someone who came to Christ because someone invited me to church. What if my friend never invited me? I don’t know where I’d be today—and that’s the truth.
The Bible tells us that Christians shouldn’t stop “…assembling of ourselves together” (see Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV).
The power of gathering together
This scripture speaks volumes about the power of community and the significance of coming together. Each week, that little church became my sanctuary—a place where I could grow in faith alongside others who were also seeking truth and grace.
There are many days I wish that small church was still here. It’s since closed its doors and was torn down due to certain road construction. But God had it there for a season knowing very well I needed that small church in October 2009.
In those early days, I discovered that the local church is not just a building; it's a vibrant community filled with people who support and challenge one another. It’s where I learned about grace and forgiveness, not just in theory but in practice. I was surrounded by individuals who shared their stories, struggles, and triumphs. Their authenticity inspired me to be open about my journey.
Each Sunday, I looked forward to worshiping together, hearing the Word preached, and engaging in heartfelt prayer. Those moments of collective worship deepened my relationship with God and connected me to a larger narrative—one that spans generations and reaches across the globe. It was a reminder that I wasn’t alone in my faith journey; others understood and walked alongside me.
Since attending that small church, I have visited many and now serve on staff at another church in my hometown. But I’ve come to realize the importance of serving within the community mentioned in Hebrews 10. Whether it is setting up for events, volunteering in children's ministry, or simply being present to lend a listening ear, I have learned that my faith is not just about what I can receive, but what I can give. The church was a place of action, a place where we could put our faith into practice, loving and serving one another in tangible ways.
One invitation can change a life forever
Reflecting on that pivotal night in 2009, I’m reminded of how one invitation can change a life forever. It makes me think of the countless others out there, waiting for someone to extend that same invitation. Perhaps this is your motivation to invite that ONE person you’ve been wanting to invite for a long time! It encourages me to reach out, to share the hope I found, and to be a part of the transformative work that God is doing in our communities.
So, as I continue on this journey, I hold onto the truth that we are called to gather, to grow, and to go out into the world with the love of Christ. Each assembly, whether big or small, holds the potential for transformation—not just for ourselves, but for those around us. It’s a beautiful reminder of the power of connection and the ripple effect that one small act of obedience can have in the lives of others.
Thank You, Jesus, for the local church!
“24 And let us consider one another in order to stir up love and good works, 25 not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as is the manner of some, but exhorting one another, and so much the more as you see the Day approaching.” – Hebrews 10:24-25 NKJV
