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[expand title=”Devotion Text”]Hosea 6:6
For I desire steadfast love and not sacrifice, the knowledge of God rather than burnt offerings.
The church building was constructed on an Indian reservation. Years later it was rolled on logs to a prime corner lot in the nearest town. But by the time I filled the pulpit the congregation had dwindled to twenty-five attenders. The people were faithful and very steeped in denominational ritual.
Every Sunday we said the Lord’s Prayer and the Apostles’ Creed. Every Sunday we sang the Gloria Patri and the Doxology. I preached out of the New International Version but was asked to switch to the King James. As one leader told me, “If the King James Version was good enough for the apostle Paul, it’s good enough for us.” I’m not sure he was joking. Today the church building has been torn down. The people are gone as well. I have been told a funeral home now sits on the corner lot.
For sure, the Lord’s Prayer needs to be recited. The Apostles’ Creed sums up our core beliefs. I love the Doxology and the Gloria Patri. But when good things become meaningless rituals, God says, “Time out!” He is not into words without meaning and hearts without emotion. God desires a fresh and vibrant commitment with those who follow him. The “knowledge of God” comes from a heart in tune and on fire. God has put up a sign for true worship that reads, “No pretenders allowed.”
Talking Points
- Ask God to show you if your walk with him is for real…or a pretense.
- Ask God to help you keep your worship fresh and vibrant.
Father, search my heart. Knock down any walls of meaningless rituals. Keep me close to where your worship fires are burning. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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