Readings for the Day
Psalms 45, 47, 48
Genesis 37: 12-24
I Corinthians 1: 20-31
Mark 1: 14-28
We ponder your steadfast love, O God, in the midst of your temple (Psalm 48:9)
Why worship at church? I've been asked this question many times. People tell me how they can worship God at home, reading their Bible, looking at the beautiful creation, or simply walking through the woods or on the beach. And indeed, these can be meaningful worshipful experiences to be sure.
I usually answer that worship in community is different. To be sure, we can have particularly meaningful personal moments in worship. This is great. However, worship in community is not so much about our personal feelings or experiences. Instead, community worship is where the disciples of Jesus consider the nature and wonder of God's love, grace, forgiveness, and peace.
Mostly, we come to be reminded amidst our anxiety, our struggles, and our brokenness that Christ remains steadfast in His commitment to us. Our brokenness and our sinfulness do not disqualify us. Jesus does not abandon us amidst our doubts, fears, and failings. No, instead, God remains ever faithful to us. And it is this ever-present, ongoing promise that makes worship not only meaningful, but necessary!
God of steadfast love, may we remain as faithful to you as you are to us. Amen.
No comments:
Post a Comment