The Gathering
by Pastor Mike Mercurio
There are many things in life that we attend without any thought of actually participating. For example, we might attend a concert or a play or a football game. We are happy to just watch and honestly there is even a thrill in watching.
But watching is not the intent of worship. Worship is a participation “sport” and we are the players. God is the audience. This makes sense especially when you think about praying and singing songs of praise. But it also makes sense when we listen to biblical teaching. This is when God speaks, but he does so like a coach, not just for the rest of the service, but for the rest of the week. Now we’re talking not about a worship service, we’re talking about our service of worship.
Paul made this clear to the Christians in Rome when he wrote: “I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God–this is your spiritual act of worship.” (12:1)
This is why we have created “The Gathering,” a time when we will warm up, so to speak, and be as ready as possible when our corporate worship begins. It will take place each Sunday in February, starting at 10:30 a.m.
When: February 1, 8, 15 and 22 … 10:30 – 11:00 a.m.
What: We will gather in the sanctuary and form small groups of 6-10 people. You can sit with your friends or make new ones. One or more of our church leaders will be available to assist you.
How to Participate: Connect with others and share what you are thankful for. Come ready to answer one or both of the following questions.
... What are you thankful for all the time?
... What are you thankful for this past week in particular?Theme Verse:
Psalms 100:4, “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name.”After we have spent time giving thanks, we will turn our hearts and our voices to praise as the worship team leads us in a pre-service song. Think of it as a final warm-up before collectively entering God’s presence.
Atmosphere: Family-friendly, bring the kids and encourage them to participate.