Saturday, 04 October 2008
I remember when Saturdays used to be a "get out on the town" night. All we could think about is what were going to do on Saturday. When I gave my life to Christ at 18 years of age my Saturdays were revolutionized. Almost automatically Saturdays became a day of preparing my heart to be in Gods presence on Sunday. Not that I locked myself in a room to pray and fast although I would do that on occasion, But I had a strong anticipation and inward reflection. Whether I was walking through a store or in a park or wherever I was my thoughts were on what God was going to do the next day. Psalms 42 "When I remember these things, I pour out my soul within me. For I used to go with the multitude; I went with them to the house of God, with the voice of joy and praise, with a multitude that kept a pilgrim feast." Speaks to us of this yearning for Gods presence. To be in his house and worship him with great celebration and Joy. Everyone in the world is so busy on Saturdays, going to the malls to the parks and places of recreation, spending time with the family. Saturday is the time for birthday parties, baby showers, weddings, quinceaneras, long drives to the mountains, and other innumerable activities. You may not want to reduce your Saturday activities but you can build expectation in your heart. There is nothing that compares to the coming together of Gods people in explosive praise and whole hearted worship to the Lord. As I would walk into the house of God I would never be disappointed and I have never been disappointed since. I just want to encourage those of you who are advanced enough in years and in spiritual growth to dedicate your Saturdays to prepare your hearts for Sunday service. Not in a legalistic way but from a spiritual hunger for more of God. Separate a little prep time on Saturday. Carry your bible with you and any chance you get read the word. Even in the midst of whatever activity you are involved in cultivate expectation for Sunday when the whole family of God gets together to sit around the Fathers table and sup with Him and He with us.