Living Glad

(Psa 122:1 KJV)  A Song of degrees of David. I was glad when they said unto me, Let us go into the house of the LORD.

(Proverbs 10 also read)

If we are reading this in the twenty-first century we think of the “house” (1004) of the Lord as our local church.  At least I do.  If you were reading it in the days of David it would obviously mean the temple except for one problem.  When David wrote this there was no temple.

Are you “glad” (8055) when someone says, “It is time to go to church”?  I used to hear this twice on Sunday, on Wednesday night and any other time the doors were open.  I watch my grandchildren get excited about going to Sunday School and Awanas.  I listen to other family members trying to come up with reasons to stay home.  David is like my grandchildren.  How about you?

If not there are a couple of issues that come to mind.

The problem may be the church you are attending.  Let’s face it.  Some churches are dead and would benefit the world if they would close their doors.  Some churches seem to be able to take perfectly grilled prime steak and turn it into fried liver.  That might demand some hard choices on your part.

The problem may be in you.  When I was a pastor I used to tell people there were days when I did not want to come to church but there was never a day that I was not glad I had been there.  I think that is natural.  If you don’t experience the worship it could be that you are closing the doors to what God wants to say to you.  Spend the ten minutes before things start listening to the prelude and thinking about the words that go with the music.  Look at the bulletin, find the text for the sermon and read it ahead of time.  Start seeking the Lord in prayer.  You will be amazed at how God will meet you.

So?  There are times when worship descends in joy.  There are times when it is a matter of discipline.  It is important.  Be glad.