Little Altars

When something works, it's tempting to depend on that "something." (Which is normal for things like Tylenol and shoes and toaster ovens.) But it occurred to me tonight that I do this in my spiritual journey- trust in the means to intimacy with God rather than the God who draws near to me. A church (Epic). A book (Renovation of the Heart). Music (Jesus Culture). A discipline (memorizing Scripture).

Through these concrete objects and structures, God has inspired me to obedience - revealed Himself - lifted my spirit - given me a sense of purpose. So I start to worry what will replace them when their effect has worn off. How then will I get my doses of the Other World? But (light bulb flashes) it's God who works through the means; the means do not manipulate God. He is the one worthy of my trust, not the created things.

It occurs to me that this may be why I have been hesitant to settle down at a church. What if it fails to make me love and want to serve God the way i "need" a church to? I keep looking for one that will come through for me, whose functionality I can depend on. But God, in fact, is big and strong and gets done what he intends. I don't need to be afraid that a church will fail to get me to God. God will get to me, either through or in spite of whatever Christian community I involve myself in. He will.

I want to trust in Him, and be less reverent of the created things that nudge me toward Him. He's big, and they are small. I don't need to be afraid.