Renewing Our Faith: Embracing True Worship and Restoration (06/21/'24) -Statement

Renewing Our Faith: Embracing True Worship and Restoration (Restoring the Sanctuary: A Return to True Worship) Today, we acknowledge a somber reality within our sanctuary: the vibrancy of true worship has often been overshadowed by neglect and the creeping presence of worldliness. The altars of our hearts and our sanctuaries have become overgrown with thorns and weeds, silencing the once-resounding chorus of genuine praise. In our modern lives, the allure of success, wealth, and worldly distractions can lead us away from our true purpose. Our worship risks becoming a hollow ritual, a mere echo of its intended essence. Yet, we hear an ancient and ever-new call to repentance, urging us to turn away from these idols and clear the spiritual overgrowth that chokes our relationship with God. We are reminded of those in scripture who, in their shame and fear, cried out to the mountains and hills to cover them. Even in their deepest despair, grace awaited them with open arms. Today, grace awaits us as well, ready to heal, renew, and embrace us as we return to the true essence of our faith. Churches are not meant to be museums, relics of a bygone era. They are living sanctuaries where love and faith flourish. To restore our sanctuary, we must clear away the thorns and weeds, return to the roots of our faith, and let the genuine spirit of worship lead us once again. We commit to this journey of restoration, seeking to clear the thorns and weeds from our altars and our hearts. We embrace the transformative power of true worship, allowing it to revive and renew us. In this return, we find not only the restoration of our sanctuaries but the revival of our very souls. As a congregation, we pledge to make our worship a living testament to our renewed devotion. Guided by the love and grace of God, we move forward together in faith and fellowship. Pastor Steven G. Lee (June 21, 2024)