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 now, in this time of the technological and digital revolution, you can worship online - via live streaming, through interactive prayer websites, and by watching videos of worship music on Youtube. It is true that these can be meaningful worshipful experiences and engaging.
I usually answer that worship in community is different. To be sure, we can have meaningful personal moments in worship. Still, worship in community is not so much about our personal feelings or experiences. Community worship is where the disciples of Jesus consider the nature and wonder of God's love, grace, forgiveness, and peace together.
We gather together to be reminded amidst our anxiety, struggles, and brokenness that Christ remains steadfast and His word has something to say to our experience. Sharing this reality with others strengthens us . We are reminded that our brokenness and our sinfulness do not disqualify us and that we are not abandoned amidst our doubts, fears, and failings.
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.
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