Ever notice how much noise we are surrounded with every day? For many, from the time the radio (or other music source) comes on with the alarm clock, to the television while getting ready, the radio during the drive to work/school, the elevator music that seems to permeate so many offices, the music on the way home from work/school, the television on until we go to bed - it seems like we can go days without spending much time in silence. Even in worship, there is a tendency, especially in modern worship movements, to always have 'something' going on, be it background music in prayers, gathering music, etc.
During the 11:00 service this month, I have chosen to not have music playing during the return of God's tithes and our offerings, just to see what God might do during that time if we engaged in this portion of worship with silence. Truthfully, I was nervous as whenever the new pastor does something different, it is GUARANTEED to cause at least a little consternation in certain quarters. However, I have felt extreme peace during this time, as I am reminded that sometimes we need to allow ourselves the opportunity to dwell in the presence of God without external stimulation (audible, visual, physical, etc.). God is reminding me that far too often, we allow so many things to be a part of our lives that it is easy to push out the one who gave us life to begin with.
I want to challenge you to examine how you are making time to dwell in the presence of God. Do you allow yourself time to be still, and know that God is God? Or are you caught on that never-ending treadmill of life, where it is accepted practice to make excuses (not reasons, but excuses) for not allowing yourself quiet time with the Almighty? Do we as a church ever put ourselves in a position to listen to God, or do we just bore ahead with whatever is the latest and greatest (or, on the other hand, the tried-and-true, don't change a thing) method for doing church and all the activities of the church?
See you Sunday!
Lamar
During the 11:00 service this month, I have chosen to not have music playing during the return of God's tithes and our offerings, just to see what God might do during that time if we engaged in this portion of worship with silence. Truthfully, I was nervous as whenever the new pastor does something different, it is GUARANTEED to cause at least a little consternation in certain quarters. However, I have felt extreme peace during this time, as I am reminded that sometimes we need to allow ourselves the opportunity to dwell in the presence of God without external stimulation (audible, visual, physical, etc.). God is reminding me that far too often, we allow so many things to be a part of our lives that it is easy to push out the one who gave us life to begin with.
I want to challenge you to examine how you are making time to dwell in the presence of God. Do you allow yourself time to be still, and know that God is God? Or are you caught on that never-ending treadmill of life, where it is accepted practice to make excuses (not reasons, but excuses) for not allowing yourself quiet time with the Almighty? Do we as a church ever put ourselves in a position to listen to God, or do we just bore ahead with whatever is the latest and greatest (or, on the other hand, the tried-and-true, don't change a thing) method for doing church and all the activities of the church?
See you Sunday!
Lamar
