We all have our pet peeves, things that annoy and distract us.  I’d like to share something one of you shared with me.

 After worship, a congregant came up to the Pastor and went on and on complaining about cell phones going off, people chit-chatting, clapping after music, etc. The Pastor asked them to try something. “Next service, get a glass of water, fill it to the brim, and walk around the sanctuary during worship. Then give me your observation.” The parishioner did this, then reported back. “I didn’t notice anything except making sure I didn’t spill any water in God’s house.” 

Point being: if we focus on why we’re here, which is to worship and commune with our God, we might not notice the other distractions. 

I know it’s a silly, theoretical, implausible illustration, but I hope it helps. For me, closing my eyes during worship helps. There is no perfect scenario, and I will not be an ogre when it comes to appropriate worship conduct – with the following exception. 

I do not clap in worship. Music is not performance in God’s house; it is done only for the glory of God and not for affirmation or gratification. That being said, if someone can’t help themselves and is responding out of gratefulness and appreciation for the musical gift that was offered and the talent and practice behind it, I will not judge or “finger-wag.”

What distresses me greatly is when people loudly talk during the offertory. I think it is very disrespectful not only to the musician, but to God. The purpose of the offertory is to prepare us to receive the Lord’s Supper. 

We all have our personal piety. We come from a great variety of backgrounds and church traditions. I love the diversity among us! 

Keep the main thing the main thing, which is WORSHIP. Socializing is for before and after the service. 

Pastor Art