If there is one thing that if I could ask God to give me, it would be the gift of singing and the ability to play a musical instrument, such as the guitar.  Ok…that’s really two things, but perhaps if I had the gift of one, I would have the gift of the other automatically.  In any case, I am envious of those who can use those gifts of musical ability for the glory of God, especially in a worship setting.  However, there is a fine line between making it about ourselves instead of making it about the glory of God.  If we are not careful, we may find ourselves wanting to attend worship because we are being entertained.  It then becomes about us being fulfilled by the ‘concert’ and not about our hearts being affected by the message of God.

In Amos 5:21-34, God warns us about worshipping in ways that do not glorify God.  God is telling the people of Israel that it is not about their egotistical music, religious meetings, and fund-raising schemes.  God says that He wants justice and righteousness.  Righteousness meaning to be in a “right” relationship with Jesus Christ.  God says it beautifully, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24).

As we worship our God and plan outreach events to our communities that we are called to respond to justice.  But we are called in such a way that it does not bring attention to us, but points to the One we are serving!  I think this can be difficult because we often want to take the credit for our hard work.  It is important to remember that it is God’s Church – not our church.

Let us pray…Dear God, help us to turn our hearts to you and not make it about us.  Help us to remember to love you more than we love ourselves.  Direct us to your will.  Amen.