Read Matthew 2:7-11
Then Herod summoned the wise men secretly and ascertained from them what time the star had appeared. And he sent them to Bethlehem, saying, “Go and search diligently for the child, and when you have found him, bring me word, that I too may come and worship him.” After listening to the king, they went on their way. And behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy. And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him. Then, opening their treasures, they offered him gifts, gold and frankincense and myrrh.
Meditate
Like most people who attend church regularly, I enjoy the time we call “worship.” I have been in churches that had full orchestras and choirs. Some have had flashing lights and smoke machines. Some have had karaoke.
I have experienced all types of music. I have stood, sat, kneeled, and a couple of times been flat on my face. Sometimes I wanted it to never end, and a time or two I might have had a thought that it would never end.
But rarely was any of that what made the time “worship.” What made it worship was the attitude of my heart. Worship was good because I had come to seek the one who is worthy to be praised.
Have I always liked the music? No. Has it been too loud sometimes? Yes. Have their been distractions? Usually. But whether I liked the music or the setting or any other thing was not what made it worship.
Because I came to see Jesus.
I have heard people say, “I really enjoyed worship today.” Why? “I really liked the songs.”
But did you see Jesus?
Anyone can find a king in a palace.
It takes a real worshipper to find the true king in a stable.
Pray
“Father, worship is not about me. It is always about you and the King of kings. Teach me to have the heart of a true worshipper. Amen.”
Contemplate
- Its time for Christmas music. Listen and enjoy this version of “We Three Kings.”
- What are your biases in worship? Ask God to reveal the things in your heart that could keep you from being a true worshipper. Come expecting to see Jesus.
The Holy Bible, English Standard Version. ESV® Text Edition: 2016. Copyright © 2001 by Crossway Bibles, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers.
