Something’s not right. I can feel a dissonance of sorts. See what you think….Here we are, living in America, totally free to worship pretty much whenever, whatever, and wherever we please. Right? So… I walked into a worship service this morning where I was with some brothers and sisters in Christ that I hadn’t met before—just visiting. We gathered together to thank and praise the God of all creation… Think of it--the God of all beauty… of all power… of all grace… of all mercy… of all love and life. Can you picture it? The God of the Universe! What could be more awe-inspiring?
We sat within earshot of the Word of God, hearing a message that offers life, healing and second chances. To everyone. No matter what. And yet—. And yet when I casually glanced around (our pew-chairs were arranged in a big square so that we could all see each other) I couldn’t help but notice a choir of yawns breaking out from every corner of the room. Some tried to discretely conceal their actions so as not to offend the person up front. Others—I don’t think—were even cognizant of where they were at the time. (It was almost noon, by the way, so no--it wasn't too early.)
Once, I almost laughed out loud—a guy yawned so wide that I swear I saw his appendix! (Okay, not really… but almost).
Now, I’m not writing this to be critical. In fact, I wouldn’t have a leg to stand on if this was just a one-shot experience. But—and here’s what’s got me baffled—I’ve been noticing the same thing recently, in several different churches, over several different Sundays, as I’ve attended several different worship services: lots of yawns. Have I just stumbled into some one-off Sundays? Or have I just happened to attend a few of the less dynamic services of worship in my area?
I’m not sure what to make of it. But… somehow, something doesn’t seem right with this picture.
1 comment:
Reading your experience at worship last Sunday makes me sad. Although I know I've been there, and done that. I think some people think the point is to show up, but they are really missing out by not experiencing the healing, the love, the power of the word of God! Just as in many congregations there are few who step up, but I hope they do not give up. I think we in the congregation need to reach out to the yawners, the ones with blinders on, share our enthusiasm. One of my experiences with this is our sessions at Damascus Way, many times when we first start 50% of the guys are not only yawning but sleeping and SNORING! Each week as we reach out and come along side that number dwindles, a transformation of a life being saved. I'm not saying the people yawning in Church aren't saved, but they are missing out on all God has to offer. I pray for our congregations and our clergy, for a fresh anointing of the Holy Spirit and a renewal of strength and encouragement to touch the yawners. :) Suprise them God.
In Him,
Loree
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