Morning Reflections - No More Pew Potatoes

Max Lucado in his book Just Like Jesus compares church services to airplane rides in one of his chapters.  He discusses how we are content to just show up and as long as nothing is too out of whack, we say things like, "that was a nice service."  So long as there isn't meddling or turbulence in the worship service, we are satisfied.  Just like on the airplane, so long as there were no delays or turbulent encounters, we say it was a good flight.  In worship, we often come with little expectation and sometimes even less engagement.  According to Lucado, we have become pew potatoes instead of engaged worshipers.

The scriptures say, "Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks.  God is spirit, and his worshipers must worship in spirit and truth (John 4:23-24)."

Today's prayer - God, liberate us from our past experiences and ways of doing things.  Breathe new life into our liturgies and worship gatherings that we may be freed for joyful celebration and able to worship in a way that is holy and honoring to you.  Help us to connect in such a way that we may fulfill the scripture and worship you in spirit and truth.  Let us expect to encounter you, our risen Lord and Savior and to be so engaged that we don't miss your Holy Presence.  Amen.