Trinity’s Lay Leader, Harriet Philipps, wrote an article in August’s newsletter about church being fun. I agree. Worship is a celebration. It’s a festival, not a funeral. There’s so much bad news today, but “gospel” means “good news,” not “bad news.” The gospel is good news that makes people joyful! So, when we gather to worship, let’s celebrate, not commiserate.
That’s what the early church did. Acts 2:46-47 says, “They worshiped together at the Temple each day … praising and enjoying the goodwill of all the people.” Notice the two words there: “praising” and enjoying.” Their worship was happy. God has given us a lot of emotions to express, and one place we can express our happiness is in worship. As Christians, our past is forgiven, we have a purpose for living, and will have a home in Heaven.
Peter said the day the church was born in Acts 6:26, “Because of this, my heart will be glad, and my words joyful, and I will have hope.” (CEV) Again Peter said in Acts 2:28, “You have shown me the paths that lead to life, and Your presence will fill me with joy.” (GNT) When we know our path; i.e., God’s purpose for our life, and we feel His presence, we’ll automatically be filled with joy. But true joy can fade. If it does, pray with David in Psalm 51:12, “Restore to me the joy of Your salvation.” (NLT) When we do, we’ll experience the Good News that makes us joyful!
Yours in Christ,
Rev. David Edgar
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