Years ago, on my college campus, I had the opportunity to attend a concert featuring Swoope, one of my favorite artists. He is a Christian rapper who is unapologetically all about Jesus. I had been listening to his music for a long time, but that was the first time I would see him live. When he began his set, the energy in the room was extremely palpable. As a long-time fan, it was amazing just to be in the same building as Mr. Swoope.
After his set, things got a little interesting. A friend made it possible for me to meet Swoope! This was my moment to express my appreciation for his inspiring music. I stood in line and waited for my turn to introduce myself and to ask him a question. I practiced this question several times in my mind, just to make sure I knew exactly what I wanted to say. I would probably never have this opportunity again, so I needed to get it right! I finally got up to the front of the line. It was Swoope and me six feet apart, apparently practicing social distancing years before COVID-19. I opened my mouth, ready to say the words I had practiced in my mind; however, no words came out! In reality, words did come out, but NOT the words I wanted! I honestly don’t remember what I said initially, but I do remember Swoope looking at me like something was wrong with me. Fortunately, he was very gracious about my awkwardness and even offered to take a picture with me. It was not the encounter I had hoped for, but it was still worth it! As I reflect on that embarrassing, yet ultimately rewarding, experience, I think about the people who inspire us. What might happen if you got to meet your “hero?” Would you respond like me or would you keep it cool?
To be honest, we do have to be careful not to put people on a pedestal. They are fallible, just like us. There is only One who is completely worthy of this position and that is the Lord. One of the fundamentals of Christianity is the fact that the Lord Almighty is accessible to believers. In other words, we can meet with God! The best part is that He can meet with you right where you are. Yes, as you #StayAtHome, God is available. If this is indeed the truth, then how should one respond to God? Dr. David Wheeler offers this insightful point: “Worship is the natural response to God’s revelation.” Dr. Wheeler goes on to describe how the disciples of Jesus found the risen Savior on a Galilean mountain. How did the disciples respond to His glorified revelation? The Bible says, “And when they saw Him, they worshiped Him.” (Matthew 28:17b) A similar thing occurred with the blind man in John 9. Jesus famously heals the man before ultimately revealing who He is. The newly healed man, when realizing the Son of God was in his presence, responded accordingly. He places His faith in Christ, and he worships Him. (John 9:38) I completely agree with Dr. Wheeler. Clearly, when people encounter the Holy God of the universe, worship is the natural response. We are so in awe of His glorious presence that we cannot help but move toward a posture of reverence. There is nothing else quite like this on earth. Even meeting your human heroes does not quite match up. In truth, my response to Swoope should pale in comparison to how I respond to God!
God is deserving of our worship each, and every day. The question is whether you are meeting with Him regularly? Does He have your complete attention and adoration? During this season, maybe we can commit to growing in our worship of the Lord. We should never get used to being in His presence. Even those who were always in His presence were constantly amazed (i.e., Jesus’ disciples). Let each waking day be an opportunity to meet with God and to be reminded of His glory. And don’t forget the best part: He wants to meet with you too.
“Ascribe to the LORD the glory due his name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness.” Psalm 29:2