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S (SCRIPTURE): Exodus 35:20-21
20 So the whole community of Israel left Moses and returned to their tents. 21 All whose hearts were stirred and whose spirits were moved came and brought their sacred offerings to the Lord.
O (OBSERVATION): Moses invites the entire community to bring their gift to accomplish what the Lord has instructed them.
A (APPLICATION): We have started visioning for a new Worship opportunity on Wednesday evenings. The first question that was asked to the people gathered, people who might claim this as their worshiping community was...."What do you intend to bring to this worship opportunity?"
It clearly was not on the radar of the people who were gathered because they struggled with what that meant. To me it is clear the trappings of a consumer christian culture. Whether we realize it or not, we come expecting programs and entertainment even if it is worship.
The scripture was clear that Moses invited all the people. That invitation is worthy of a response....yes or no....to participate in the life God is calling the Israelites and us into. All whose hearts are stirred and spirits moved came and brought their gifts to the Lord. That is something....God's spirit moves and directs that response. What are you moved and stirred to offer in response to God's instructions for your life?
P (PRAYER): Lord, move, stir, inspire us to respond to offer our gifts and life in accordance with your leading.