“And is now here, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for the Father is seeking such people to worship him. God is spirit, and those who worship him must worship in spirit and truth.” John 4:23-24
Christians believe that there is a god. Therefore, Christian living is not only about living a life according to the teaching of God but is also about having a relationship and close fellowship with Him. The centre of Christian living is to worship God. In worshiping, we give reverence and respect to God by lifting His name above all else. The verse indicates the way we should worship God and we also get to know His desire to seek such worshippers.
The Samaritan woman was confused which was more sacred as a worship place, Samaria or Jerusalem? The debate focused on the place of worship rather than worshiping the one and true God. But she realized that the essence of worship was not about being ceremonially religious but was about worshiping God in spirit and in truth. The Samaritan woman also learnt that God sought those who worshiped Him in earnest.
Whilst it is desirable to have a sanctuary with proper proceeding in worshiping, it does not mean that without these elements, we cannot conduct any worship. Worship is not dictated by place and substance prevails over form. In Romans 12:1-2, “I appeal to you therefore…to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship. Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind.”
Worshiping God is about being submissive to His will. As a result, what matters is what comes out of our heart. Indeed, worship can be in various forms; some have very strict proceeding and some can be very liberal but if we miss the essence of worship, that is to have a contrite heart and subject ourselves to His sovereignty, we are not the kind of worshipers whom God is seeking.
Today is the day of worship. Let us sing praises unto Him and praise His holy name. “Ascribe to the LORD the glory due His name; worship the LORD in the splendor of holiness”. (Psalms 29:2) Ask ourselves if we are one of the worshippers whom God is seeking!