Many Ways For The Same Goal

How you worship Christ only matters in how you answer the question, does this method bring me closer to Christ? Jesus didn't create a bunch of clones, using the same exact design like robots off the manufacturing line. Instead, He gave us unique abilities, personalities, and quirks that make each of us special. We approach God differently and together, each of us adds to the collective perspective of our Heavenly Father.

Some choose to worship in a more traditional method with responsive readings from the Bible, using the poetic hymns for song, and worshiping in awe, realizing just how big God is and how our little minds have no chance of comprehending Him here on Earth. Others emulate the celebration that will occur in heaven with active music, cheering, dancing, raising our hands in worship of our awesome God. They celebrate the energy of life that God provides, casting off their burdens and living in unrestrained worship.

Who is to say which method of worship is right and which is wrong? Does one method bring person A closer to Christ and the other method Person B? We are all different in what touches our hearts. Some need to hear a simple message over and over again to remind them of God's uncomplicated plan we are supposed to be living. Others can pull out the beauty of a finely written poem, using it to visualize in their minds how God cares and looks after each of us, how His love is pure beauty and never wavers.

John's disciples were questioning why the disciples of Jesus didn't fast like John's disciples or the Pharisees. This is how Christianity implodes, when you have internal conflict because you believe your method of worship should apply to everyone else, but what works for you may not work for another. Your relationship with God is unique and designed for you alone. We need to stop criticizing how one group worships differently than you and instead praise God that He created a method that touched someone else's heart, drawing them to God. Worshiping God is to celebrate a life of pure love that can only come from Christ. Let us all come together, praising God for redeeming each of us in ways meant specifically for you and me.

- Thoughts from Mathew 9:14-17

encounter: Share what aspects of worship move and touch your heart, mind, and soul. Why do these practice mean so much to you as your adore Christ Jesus?