I have had the occasion to attend military functions, have observed many political gatherings, have been in courtrooms and have attended church conferences and
events. When the flag is raised, the judge enters, speakers approach podiums and pulpits the audience/congregation rises in respect and appreciation (sometimes because it is commanded, but standing still results).
However, I have noticed in my comings and goings that standing seems to be optional in regular church services; especially among the young. If great -grandma, -pa, -auntie, -uncle will stand for praise and worship in service then surely surely the young ones can...all can...all should. GOD has done, is doing and promises to do (with definite follow through) more than any politicians or human judges could ever do in their own ability.
Surely surely the Lord God Almighty is worthy of honor, respect and appreciation. Flags are respected wherever they are by the peoples they represent. Verbal and physical altercations have ensued for the mishandling or mistreatment of one's flag. Surely surely we can...should respect the Lord God Almighty wherever we are by our lifestyle and conversation...should be moved to stand.
How can we honestly be angry with the world, its systems and members for not honoring God, when so many of His own do not? Our response to the question of our opening text is to be stated in word and deed. Our business dealings, school functioning, home interactions, commuter passings, shopping transactions, and church happenings should express the nature of the God -
~ We say we love
~ We serve
~ Who called us out of darkness and into His marvelous light
They should convey -
~ Our acknowledgment and gratitude for/to the One who loves us
so dearly
~ The Lord's perfecting work in our hearts and lives
They should command from others -
~ Respect toward God by our own respect for Him
~ Acknowledgment of God's handiwork, (even if nothing more
than
a "there's different about you" statement)
In short, our lives are of the greatest witnessing tools we have. How we live, respond and react; wherever we are and whatever we are doing tell who God is, what He has done and of whom we rely...where our faith lies. Our lifestyle should state and demand the respect due the one true living God who resides in us by His Holy Spirit.
So, body of Christ, STAND, SALUTE with hands raised in worship, surrender and submission to the greatest Authority. HONOR GOD, for surely surely HE IS WORTHY to be praised. Glory to our GOD! Amen.
