Empowerment Day

I was at a church yesterday where for the first time in a LONG time, I was surrounded by people who were honestly worshipping God. Young and old alike. I felt as though there was some kind of connection with hundreds of people I've never met before, that even if the one thing connecting us was our faith, it was an incredible bond.
Everyone was so happy there. So many people said "hello" "glad to see you" "I'm so happy you came today." Weird. Why was that weird? Why was it weird that no one asked me why I wasn't in Sunday School? Why was it weird that it was over before I realized what time it was?
The pastor made a few points that I really needed to hear. He made reference to the idea of how our feelings follow our actions - not the other way around. Most of the time, we say we don't feel like doing something so it doesn't get done. If we were to just do it and the feelings come after, that may hold a different outcome.
This idea spoke volumes to me because so often, because of certain situations I don't feel valuable or like I want to do ANYTHING. But, at least as far as my job is concerned, I should work as if I have a sense of purpose and feel valuable in what I do, then maybe I'll actually feel that way.
I was reminded in a gentle way to be active.
I'm thankful for people who don't make you feel guilty but rather empower you. This is a gift that few leaders I have met possess.