| The dictionary defines the word “ceremonial” as “the
correct way to behave on formal occasions.” When there’s a
service or social function of special significance, there’s also
a certain sense of ceremony surrounding it. We don’t act the way
we normally would because that would make it less special. This sense
of ceremony is the reason we dress differently whenever we go to a funeral
service or a wedding. These occasions have special value, and we honor
this fact through our appearance.
Every bride is sensitive to this. She doesn’t show up for her wedding
wearing her workout clothes or anything else that’s common because
she wants to honor the spirit of ceremony. When it comes to the church,
we too are a bride, and we too need to maintain a ceremonial attitude
when we gather for our church services.
Before I’m misunderstood, let me clarify that I’m not talking
about turning church into an experience that is routine, ritualistic,
or devoid of the Holy Spirit. What I’m saying is that we need to
follow the exhortation in the book of Ecclesiastes to:
Walk prudently when you go to the house of God; and draw near to hear
rather than to give the sacrifice of fools, for they do not know that
they do evil. Do not be rash with your mouth, And let not your heart utter
anything hastily before God. For God is in heaven, and you on earth; Therefore
let your words be few. (Ecclesiastes 5:1–2 NKJV)
God’s house should be a special and sacred place. It’s where
someone who’s living in sin should see our respectfulness as we
interact, worship, pray, and study the Scriptures. If we project a casual
approach toward God, others will stay casual toward God and stay comfortable
with their sin. But if we show the ceremonial respect that a bride should,
conviction will set in and they will sense their need for change. As Christ’s
bride, let’s make our churches a place where we do our best to preserve
a sense ceremony.
DIG - What are some special occasions, and how do they alter your normal
behavior?
DISCOVER - On a scale of one to ten, how special is church to you?
DISPLAY - What can you practically do to make your church a more ceremonial
place? (Hint: punctuality, cell phone)
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