I should note, my current congregational home is noted for dancing, flag waving . . . even a young adult cartwheeled across the front at God’s insistance . . . . which turned out to confront an atheist who’d just asked God to show he was real by having someone cartwheel across the front.
Yet, on average, I don’t feel a whole lot in most services. I man the used book table in back and somehow rarely seem energized by whatever’s going on.
Occasionally, I’ll feel touched or congruent with moving around a bit . . . maybe a slight dance sort of in place or in a small area in front of the book tables . . .
But I hate sham and going through the motions. So, if it’s not authentic, I don’t.
I agree that there’s a place for ACTING IN FAITH AS THOUGH . . . but unless there’s at least a kernal of leading or authenticity rising up in my spirit—I tend to sit such stuff out.
Praise God for those who feel touched every service. Praise God for those who get excited every service. I’m sometimes a bit covetous of their experiences in The Lord. But I hate phoney and I know God hates phoney so unless and until or except when it’s authentic for me, I’m quiet.
One of my students’ mothers is a keyboardist in our services. Precious woman. She evidently thinks I’m quiet and reserved. Her daughter, my student knows better because of all my outrageous demonstrations and antics in class.
It’s a funny contrast.
I’m not at all against emotional demonstrations or acting out one’s excitement or passion for The Lord. I just don’t want any of it to be phoney or for show before man.
And, usually, I’m rather quiet . . . still . . . with my sound canceling headphones on because of the outrageous amplified volume of the music—104db last Sunday morning. GRRR.
Historically, I believe that the style of worship had much to do with the existing culture and particular peoples would worship according to their cultural norms and particular biblical emphasis’ although there were always the outliers who would resist the cultural norm.
In America, with the diverse marketplace of religion, people tend towards those churches that match their personality type.
I agree completely with that. If it isn't heartfelt adoration of the Lord, it is for the attention of man and they will have their reward, but it won't be from him. How empty it must feel to go home afterwards knowing it was just for show.
You just gave me a great idea for Mom's Christmas present. She is always complaining of the music being too loud after communion and that she cannot concentrate on her adoration. Freepmail me with what brand you think would be the best.