Messing Up Worship.....

I love my church and I love my kids.  Because I am human I want things to mesh easily and smoothly.  I want to avoid conflict and work together to bring hope to this hurting world.

And every week I see the rubbing points where I could totally blow it and force these two things I love to spiral away from each other.  Mostly because I want outward conformity more than authentic worship.  I want it to 'look good' before I want it to 'be good.'  Which isn't good at all...........

I could fuss about clothing
and jewelry
about sitting
or standing.
About eyes open
or eyes closed.
Mouths singing
or ears listening

I could force outward
conformity
and loose everything
because they would leave their hearts
at home
in the fight with me.

And worship isn't about me
It's about meeting with the living God

It's about being quiet in my own heart
so that theirs can be touched.
Rather than stirring up anger
and causing them to
confuse my own stupid sinful behavior
with worship.

I can lead them gently
into the sanctuary
or I can teach them to leave their hearts at home.
Because it's easier to prepare their bodies.....
and sometimes I'm lazy.

Which is serious business
because it's kingdom business.

Not that I can stop God
or mess up his plans
but I can make it harder for my children to hear Him-
Because I forget why we are there.