When I visit other churches I find myself people watching a great deal more than if I’m at my normal church.
It might be because I know the people around me. I know the mayor and his wife are to my right on the second row.
I know Ms. Kay is behind me and if I can’t figure out the hymn I can use her as a guide.
Now, as we church hop and visit, I’m seeing so many different types of worship. Last week we visited a church where the pastor spoke quickly and to the point.
With little transition he dove right into the service and the morning was wrapped up with everyone reciting a prayer about the love of God. It was a bit long and very detailed, a major change from what I’m used to saying.
This past Sunday we visited a church that, due to remodeling, was in an elementary school.
After dropping Nana off we walked into the gym, which has been turned into what reminded me of a rock concert.
There were flashing lights, drums and guitars, and even smoke.
I couldn’t help but people watch.
This crowd was so diverse.
People of every age, color, and background absolutely filled the gym to a point where there were no open seats left.
A creature of habit, I took the second row to be close to the action.
From there I had a good view of the band and other leaders in the church.
As the music continued, I looked to my left where I saw the pastor.
His hands were in the air and he was sobbing as he sang along
“Now on my heart this word is written, forgiven, forgiven.”
So many people had their hands in the air, some were crying, and a lot were smiling.
Photo by Vertical Church
The sermon was great, left me with something to think about, and even had an app where I could follow along to take notes.
Later in the afternoon, I got a text message from one of my favorite FUMC tweens showing me a photo of a recent Bible journal entry.
Her prayer and praise was as simple as could be: “love you! Thank you! Amen!”
I’ve seen so many different ways to worship God over the last two weeks but I think this tween’s was my favorite.
Not to say the others weren’t genuinely beautiful displays of worship, but there was something so innocent and loving about this simple prayer.
How often do we get wrapped up in what we say, being politically correct, dressing right, or finding that perfect scripture when in reality, all God wants is exactly what this little girl gave Him?
I hope to remember that the next time I struggle to find the right words in a prayer or wonder if I’m worshipping as well as those around me.
I love you.
Thank you.
Amen.
