Humans have a knack for making things efficient and economical.
Someone once told me about how their church had added an early worship service so they could go ahead and “get it done.” I have even had a sister at my congregation tell me how upset she was that nobody told a guest speaker what time he had to stop.
While I suppose it is good that folks like these are in the service and know they are where they are supposed to be, I wonder if that kind of attitude isn’t what Jesus was talking about making it difficult to enter the “narrow door.” (Luke 13:22-30)
Psalm 50 is a warning that both Israel (who had the practice of worship down to a science) and the wicked are in the same boat if they don’t remember God and glorify him. (Psalm 50:22-23)
God expects us to be fully engaged with him. Efficiency isn’t always the best choice!
Jesus made no bones about following him being expensive and that it requires a complete rethinking of one’s life. (Luke 14:25-33) He said those wanting to get through the narrow door must “strive” to get in. (Luke 13:24) The word strive has connotations of agony in its definition.
While being economical is a good trait for saving time and money, what risk do we face when we apply that thinking to our worship? How can it affect our daily lives?
The narrow door may close on us because of:
- Pride (1 Peter 5:6)
- Procrastination (2 Corinthians 6:2)
- A lack of urgency (Luke 13:24)
That last one is pretty complex. If we approach the narrow door in a casual manner we may:
- Attempt to bring contraband
- Not arrive before the door shuts
- Never really ever get around to trying
The challenge offered today is to sing, pray, give, serve and live like our souls depend on it.
It does.
September 20, 2013
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