For where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them. Matthew 18:20
In the quaint town of Aberdeen, Idaho, with a population of just 1,832 people, the spiritual landscape is unique. There aren’t any traditional Christian churches present—only a Mennonite church and an LDS church stand as the town's religious institutions. Yet, in this setting, a story of hope and faith unfolded, through a call to serve and faithful response.
Rick and Amber, members of a community group at Rockharbor Church (RH), have family in Aberdeen who had once been part of the LDS church but had since left. In search of spiritual nourishment, these family members turned to online church services. Rick and Amber felt that these family members and friends needed to hear the good news of Jesus Christ. So, they worked up the courage to invite Scott Harrop to share a simple gospel message in Aberdeen. Scott, without hesitation, accepted this call to serve. It was the first step in what would become a much larger endeavor.
Inspired by the idea, we at Rockharbor thought, "Why not transform this event into a Rockharbor experience?" So, with that on our mind, we assembled a dedicated team from the Rockharbor residency program, including Markus Moore, Christian Thompson, Jose Vega, Sean Hoskins, Scott and Joy Harrop, and Jeromy and Hope Kovatana, to create a church service reflective of the Rockharbor experience.
The journey to Aberdeen was met with challenges as snow covered the roads. It definitely casted a shadow of doubt on the event's success. We wondered… Would people brave the storm to attend the Night of Hope? Despite the uncertainty, we clung to our faith, trusting in God's plan and remaining steadfast in our mission.
Upon our arrival, as we set up for the service, the snow subsided, and the skies cleared. Was this a sign, perhaps, of divine favor? To our amazement, families began to arrive at the white barn in Aberdeen, filling the space with eager anticipation. The crowd continued to grow up to around 100 adults and children, all curious about the night's promise.
The atmosphere was electric with a mix of shock and awe as attendees, ranging from seasoned believers to those unacquainted with the gospel, settled in. As worship began, the Holy Spirit moved powerfully throughout the room, touching hearts and igniting a passion for the Lord. The gospel of Jesus Christ resonated within the barn.
Post-service, the air buzzed with conversation. Believers approached us, expressing gratitude and a renewed hope for their community. The message of Christ had sparked a flame that would surely kindle further discussion among friends and family. During the service, two individuals raised their hands signifying that they had just accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior—a testament to the night's profound impact.
How then will they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how are they to believe in him of whom they have never heard? And how are they to hear without someone preaching? And how are they to preach unless they are sent? As it is written, 'How beautiful are the feet of those who preach the good news! Romans 10:14-15
Our team returned home, hearts brimming with joy and thankfulness for the opportunity to serve through our God-given talents. The Night of Hope in Aberdeen was a reminder that when called upon, we must move with faith, bringing light to those in darkness, and offering hope to the lost.
The Night of Hope in Aberdeen stands as a beacon of what can be achieved when faith, community, and action converge. It is a story that will continue to inspire and encourage all who believe in the transformative power of the gospel.
