As I break free from the things that hold back my faith, I am taking this next three months to experience worship in other places. This personal journey of reconstructing my faith is focused on my walk so it serves no purpose to mention the names of the places I will worship in, the denomination, or the names of people I encounter on this path. I am sure that I will have experiences that do not match my own personal beliefs, however my goal is to take something positive away from each and every experience. The positive take away will be the subject of my reflections.
This past Sunday, I chose a place of worship solely on the beauty of the building. I had often driven by this building, was drawn to it, and had eagerly wanted to enter it and worship there. The building was small and simple but it's beauty spoke to me. Once inside the structure, I was pleased to see that it was just as beautiful, if not more so, on the inside! I had arrived early for the service and was greeted by the Pastor who introduced me to his wife and a few other congregational members who had gathered early. I was able to explain to the Pastor what it was I was doing with my faith journey. He offered to give me a tour of the building as we talked. By the start of the service, I had been introduced to every member of the small congregation, that was present that Sunday.
I absolutely loved the music in the service! And the people's expressions of their faith as they sang and throughout the service. It was wonderful to see such expressions of faith and such love for God! The message was based on the book of Acts chapter 17:1-11. This was exciting to me as the last sermon I had preached, on May 12, 2013 was on Acts 16:16-34.
The three main points I took away from the message were:
1. Wherever town Paul ended up in his journey, he found a synagogue and went to it. He may not have been well received at all of the synagogues, but he went. No matter where we go, we can seek out God in any place of worship.
2. The Jews in Thesalonica examined the scriptures every day. Studying scripture daily is essential for our spirit and soul. I make an attempt to do this daily.
3. These same Jews also examined the scriptures to see if what Paul and Silas preached was true. The take away for me here was to study for yourself and not just believe what others say. It is easy to be deceived. Listen to what people tell you, but study and learn for yourself.
Something I found myself reflecting on, as a result of this message, is how literally do we take the Bible. People can find a scripture to defend any of their beliefs, if they choose. Was the Bible meant to be taken word for word? Or is there a deeper meaning imbedded in the stories? I welcome any discussion on these questions.
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