Wednesday, November 25, 2009

The Offense of Liturgy


Do some believers take offense to liturgical worship because it seems mechanical or artificial? Is this because it is thought that God only looks upon the private motions of our individual thoughts and hearts in worship, and does not concern himself with our outward (or group) behavior?

It seems to me that in this view, corporate worship is private worship in a group. Perhaps this is why in traditional "non-liturgical" churches the people's role is so quiet (except for the corporate singing).

But, understanding the "real presence" of Christ, actually and specially in our midst during worship, actually but invisibly present to our bodies, faces and hearts, should provoke a different conception of worship. The Christ whom we see and hear by faith is really there in Person in our midst, and we must react accordingly.

When Christ is really there, and really personally speaks to you in the congregation through his Word, how can you not say "Thank you" -- out loud?

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