Worship in Redeo Drive Style

During our recent vacation, we had the opportunity to go to down Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills, California. I first quickly realized that it is not pronounced the way it is spelled. It has nothing to do with horses, cowboys, or bull riding. The street is lined with many stores all white sparkling buildings. I was told of all the famous designers that had stores along the strip. I must admit because of my limited knowledge of high fashion design, I am sure everyone else was impressed. I only felt like I should have been impressed. Rent in on store was almost half a million dollars a month. We witnessed hundreds of shoppers walking down the street, million dollar cars aligning each side, and people stopping and taking pictures. We were told it was a shopper’s paradise. Within a few minutes, I could tell I was out of my comfort zone. It was everything one would imagine it would be or seen on television.


The street was bustling with excitement, flair, and luxury. But then upon a closer look, we noticed something peculiar. Out of all the hundreds of people, walking down the street, no one was carrying any bags. We did not see one person that had made a purchase. The crowd was just window shopping, taking photos, and pointing. No one was actually buying anything. It would be impossible to determine why all the people lined the streets, but what was evident was they were not there to actually shop, purchase anything, or spend any money. They were present to either be seen or see what Rodeo drive was all about.

In reflecting on our Beverly Hills experience, I wonder how many of us are like that in worship. We come to either be seen or to see what is going on. We come to get away from the routine of our daily lives; a life that can be full of pain, sorrow, stress, and anxiety. We come to share our joys, celebrations, and information with our faith family. We come to be around others who are better defined in their spirituality. We show up to window shop, take pictures, and recall precious memories. We come and experience the presence of Christ. All these things are awe-inspiring, but are we leaving empty handed or d we actually make a purchase. Are our bags full or do we just window shop. What do we take away from the sacred holy time we spend in worship? Are we there to just witness Christ’s words, or are we here to actually take something away that will benefit both our lives and the lives of others. Christ love for us illustrates his desire, wants, and wishes, for us. He wants us to make a purchase. He wants is to exchange our currency for something greater. Maybe less emphases need to be on why we show up, and more on what we take away.
See ay in church but until then take care of yourself and one another.
Shalom,
Tommy