TODAY’S VERSE
Hebrews 10:24-25
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. (ESV)
Over the past several years, I’ve been fortunate enough to find myself on several Student Ministry trips, either for a weekend retreat or a summer camp. While these trips can be exhausting, they’re also filled with some of the most spiritually formative experiences. Here’s the common theme I’ve noticed: Kids come back from camp with their lives changed and with a renewed sense of who they are and who Jesus is. I often find myself at the back of the auditorium during these events, watching as hundreds of teenagers worship Jesus with their whole hearts. I’ll be honest, I don’t make it through any of these trips without shedding a tear or two as I watch God move in and through our students.
Scott mentioned on Sunday that one reason many adults stop growing is that we stop going to camp — and I agree! As adults, we stop having moments where we pause and reflect on the wonder and majesty of the One we get to worship. We stop opening our hearts to Jesus, and we become more and more dependent on ourselves. Sunday morning becomes an option, instead of an opportunity.
This past Friday, I was at our Georgetown campus helping students check in for Fall Retreat. A small group of students had actually arrived early and were gathered at the front of the auditorium. Even before heading out, these students were gathered in a circle with a guitar to orient their hearts and minds on Jesus! I’m so grateful for students who abandon all sense of pride and image management to humbly worship at the feet of Jesus. We could all learn from their example of what it looks like to worship authentically!
The truth is, we have this same opportunity every Sunday. An opportunity to put ourselves aside, to approach the throne of God with full confidence, and worship the only One worthy of our praise. Gathering to worship Jesus moves the needle in our hearts and minds. In a world that continues to move away from the cross, we can’t neglect gathering together if we want to continue to grow and strengthen in our faith (Hebrews 10:24-25).
APPLICATION
If getting to church regularly on Sunday has been hard for you, my challenge to you is to show up! And if Sunday morning is already a regular habit for you, my encouragement is to invite your one more this week.
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PRAYER
Lord, give us the strength to gather together with Your people this weekend. Help us to encourage and stir each other to love and good works.