God Included!

For Sunday, September 18, 2022:

Psalm 100:1 KJV: “Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands.”

When we gather for worship, we pray for many people to attend, and we sing glad songs thereby making a joyful noise. My question for today: Are we singing unto the Lord? Have we even invited God to our gathering?

I’ve been to churches that think they have everything covered. A young Worship Leader sings up-tempo songs. An elder reads scripture. Youth leaders escort the children to classrooms. And a pastor (hopefully) exposits Bible texts about various topics. Is God even needed in that church? Maybe God doesn’t show up because these people think they have covered all the tasks!

I once attended a Father’s Day service. The sermon talked about families and being a good father. It seemed like a good message, until another pastor pointed out that the speaker never once mentioned Jesus! That changes everything!

In fact, our meeting is pointless unless we include the Lord. Don’t get so caught up in preparing a good program that you forget to praise God, actually worship God, and thank him for all that he has provided. Make God the center of your church, not an afterthought. Make sure you invite him in!

Pastor Norton Lawellin

Jesus in the City Fellowship, 3249 30th Ave. S., Minneapolis, MN 55406