Pastor's Weekly Word

 

I have always loved this line from Psalm 122. I read it and picture someone jumping out of bed with the kind of expression one has when they just won the lottery. They throw on their clothes and, without so much as a nod to anyone they pass, sprint down the street to the church, bursting in just as worship is about to begin. Joy fills the sanctuary with people eager to be there, like their life depended on it.

 

We come to church for many reasons. Some come because their mom or dad made them. Others come because they feel as if they are missing something in their life. Still others because, even though they may not be able to fully explain it, they have some sense of what worship is really about. We bring a wide variety of things into worship when we come, most of us not even realizing that we are doing it.

 

When I look out on the people of Canyon Creek, I see eager faces. Oh, it’s not always of the caliber of Psalm 122, but it is there. I see it every Sunday. Sometimes I see it in the form of a child giddily raising their hand during children’s time. At other times it is during a prayer. Or it may be during a silent moment when I am preaching and I know you are listening (which is both comforting and discomforting at the same time). It's as if you can't wait to see how God is going to show up, and it is almost always palpable.

 

I can’t think of a single Sunday when I have not experienced a moment of gratitude for this wonderful worshiping congregation. You are a great church, and I am honored to be your pastor.