GOD GETS NOTHING OUT OF WORSHIP

FRIDAY, 18 MAY 2007
Reading: Acts 18:9-18; John 16:20—23

St. Paul was brought to court by some of the Jews and accused of what they called, “influencing people to worship God in ways that are against the law.” Every religion has its own ways of worship. Lord knows we Catholics over the centuries have had every movement and word in the Mass precisely set down for us as if it were etched in marble.

Since the 2nd Vatican Council in the early 60’s much more leeway has been given. But if human nature goes as accustomed, gradually, over the years, precise, picayune procedures will again be imposed by those who like every detail spelled out. What we need to be aware of in regard to worship is this: God gets nothing out of worship no matter how it’s done.

What God wants is our sincerity. God wants our love, our hearts, our lives, our attention. What he wants is you and me, with open arms and smiling faces. Well, I doubt that his concern is really focused on how we express it.

But God is not someone on a throne demanding everybody to bow down before him, requiring that we stand, kneel, sit, make the sign of the cross at certain times, and say the proper words. What does he have to gain from that?

The best gift to the God who made us and gave us life is to be grateful to him for our lives and make something of ourselves that would make any father and mother proud. Worship is a formal way of expressing our gratitude and admiration. Prayer is to open us to receive the help from God that we need for everyday living.

May I suggest this? Love God! Love your neighbor! Then live and worship in the way that best expresses your love.