Both And, Not Either Or

When we consider the need to climb higher in aunthetic worship and go farther in compassionate service we have to remember that both are necessary for us. 

The mountains are places where we can survey the horizon and get proper perspective. It's in these intimate moments with God that we can experience true inner healing and restoration. But what you notice is that nothing grows on a mountain top. We can't live on the mountain top, even Moses and Elijah eventually had to descend into the valley. But what they gained on the mountain top was the strength they needed to live and serve in the valley. While the mountains are barren they do gather snow and when the snows melt they provide water to the valleys. The mountains also serve to create climates that support life and growth. The winds and the rains are affected by the mountains. 

In the valleys we experience growth. Its there that the sun, soil, water, and toil all come together to bear fruit. While the valleys are hot and difficult they are also the places where we enjoy the fruit of our labors. We see in the harvests how God has been at work through our efforts bring life out of the death and seeing our lives enriched.  We often resist the valleys because the represent change and work, but when we descend from the mountain top with a heart strengthened by our encounter with God we can see real growth and power in our service to others.

Share some of your recollections of personal mountain top experiences and seasons of valley growth below......

Climbing Higher in Authentic Worship

Then the LORD came down upon Mount Sinai, on the top of the mountain. And the LORD called Moses to the top of the mountain, and Moses went up. Exodus 19:20

Then the servants of the king of Syria said to him, "Their gods are gods of the hills. Therefore they were stronger than we.... 1Kings 20:23a  

These two passages reveal an interesting concept. Somewhere deep within us there is a recognition that we look up when we look for God. Even though we know that God is omnipresent (present everywhere) we still have this innate sense that God is above us. 

God called Abraham and Moses to meet with Him on a mountain. Jesus called His disciples to Himself on a mountain. Jesus was crucified on a mountain and ascended to heaven from a mountain. All of this to say that there is significance to the idea of climbing higher in authentic worship. We don't have to climb a mountain literally, but it does suggest that there are obstacles and challenges that we have to overcome in order to climb higher. 

Some common obstacles are everyday distractions that crop up and steal our time and focus. But one major obstacle that stands in everyone's path is authenticity which means to act in good faith and sincerity of intention. Authenticity in worship means that we approach God with an open heart and open ears allowing Him access to our deepest inner being. 

That sound easier than it actually is and I believe the primary reason we so often miss out on this incredible depth of relationship with God is because authenticity takes time. I know I'm guilty of trying to develop and deep and intimate relationship with God in my spare time as I wander through life from day to day.

Authenticity in worship requires an intentional mindset that set aside time for God to examine my heart and address the things He finds there.

Authenticity in worship requires me to often pass through some discomfort as God tests my motivations and desires.

Authenticity in worship requires that I get to the point where I allow God to shape and form my heart to beat in rhythm with His.

Authenticity in worship requires me to ...............  (you fill in the blank) 

Climbing Higher,

Pastor Jerry

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