What Makes a Worship Service

In addition to my great excitement about resuming in-person worship this Sunday, I have some nagging fears and concerns.  One of my fears is that there will be disappointment when we think back to our last worship service on March 8.  In comparison, July 26 will pale.  I’m reminded of a story in Ezra 3:11-12 as the exiles returned to rebuild the temple.

And all the people gave a great shout of praise to the Lord, because the foundation of the house of the Lord was laid. But many of the older priests and Levites and family heads, who had seen the former temple, wept aloud when they saw the foundation of this temple being laid, while many others shouted for joy. 

I suspect both emotions will be present on Sunday.  There will be great joy because we can gather once again.  There will be sadness because this is a shell of what we enjoyed pre-COVID.  I want you to know that both of these emotions are legitimate and acceptable.  It’s okay to be excited.  And it’s okay to feel sadness and disappointment.  But more than either of those emotions, I’m praying that you will feel the presence of God.  I’m praying that whether you are in the sanctuary, the gym, or your living room on Sunday morning, you will know that God is with you.  This is what makes our worship service.  This is what makes us Ferrysburg Community Church: God’s presence in our midst as we gather.