What is a sanctuary? Webster defines it as "a consecrated place: a: the ancient Hebrew temple at Jerusalem or its holy of holies b (1): the most sacred part of a religious building." When I think of a sanctuary I think of a holy place; somewhere you can go to feel the presence of the Lord. A quiet place, reverent, solemn, joyful, peaceful, calm. A place with stained glass windows, prayer alters, the Lord's Supper Table, bibles, candles, hymnals, pews, pulpit, piano, choir loft and a baptismal. I asked my fellow facebook friends what comes to mind when they hear the word "sanctuary" this is what some of them had to say: peace, safe place, worshipping, safe haven, God's word, souls saved, total mercy, a song called Sanctuary, the presence of God, a refuge ... I think the sanctuary should be considered a holy place and treated as such. Sadly the world has changed the look and feel of the sanctuary and it makes me sad. I don't think there is anything "holy" about darkness, flashing lights or even smoke in the sanctuary (not on purpose anyway). I suppose modern churches must think that too, considering they've changed the name of the sanctuary to the "worship center". I know it doesn't change what it is, but it does change how I perceive it. I am not saying that people aren't worshipping when they go into a worship center. That is NOT the point of my post. However, my heart longs to keep the sanctuary just as it is; a sanctuary ( a holy place of quiet reverence). I want my sanctuary back. I am praying that the church will rise up and be what it has ALWAYS been, a sanctuary.
Exodus 25:8 "And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them."
Exodus 25:8 "And let them make Me a sanctuary, that I may dwell among them."
This is an old hymn my mom and I used to sing at Tucapau Baptist. My heart longs for this type of worship. Read the words:
Just as I am written by William B. Bradbury
Just as I am, without one plea,
but that thy blood was shed for me,
and that thou bidst me come to thee,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
2. Just as I am, and waiting not
to rid my soul of one dark blot,
to thee whose blood can cleanse each spot,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
3. Just as I am, though tossed about
with many a conflict, many a doubt,
fightings and fears within, without,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
4. Just as I am, poor, wretched, blind;
sight, riches, healing of the mind,
yea, all I need in thee to find,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
5. Just as I am, thou wilt receive,
wilt welcome, pardon, cleanse, relieve;
because thy promise I believe,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
6. Just as I am, thy love unknown
hath broken every barrier down;
now, to be thine, yea thine alone,
O Lamb of God, I come, I come.
Go be a blessing . . .
The opinions expressed in this blog are those of myself, Susan Boiter Neal and not of anyone else. I speak on behalf of myself and what is on my heart. I am open to listen to other peoples thoughts and ideas as well. If you'd like to comment my facebook feed is open, however, if anyone says anything disrespectful I will remove it.
