PLEASE REMAIN SEATED, SERVICE IN PROGRESS

Growing up, I remember, the reverence with which Sundays were observed. Back in those ancient days, No cartoons were allowed on Sunday mornings and my Mum would play some Ron Kenoly or any other gospel artist to get us prepared for service. 

I know some people who said it was against the rules to eat before going to church because their parents wanted to get to church fasting or because they didn't have enough time to have breakfast –I dunno. But generally, many people regarded this day is a special one. And we still do don't we? Why? Is it because we are keeping the Sabbath holy or just because that’s what our parents did and we are keeping with tradition?

Now, I notice “Church” is not treated much differently than any other entertainment venue these days, hence the need for the notice on the screens "PLEASE REMAIN SEATED, SERVICE IN PROGRESS". When the final words of the message are uttered, there’s a mad dash for doors. I know they don't want to queue but is that really an excuse on this revered day. Where are we all rushing to? To go home and cook our Sunday rice or get the kids ready for school the next day? Or to catch some extra sleep before the work week begins? This is not a fast food joint or a concert. It seems that Sunday is just not that special anymore

I have been overwhelmed by the concern God shows for every particular form of worship. God loves worship. He seeks those who would worship Him in spirit and in truth (John 4.24). I am not saying that you are not worshiping sincerely if you are in a hurry to leave, but Sunday is the premier day for corporate worship. I believe there are blessings awaiting true worshipers--especially when they show the reverence and care for proper worship that He suggests in Exodus which is what He wants from His people.

First of all, let me say that setting aside one day of the week for rest and worship is right and proper whether that day be Friday, Saturday, or Sunday or any day of the week for that matter. The scriptures reminds us that the day itself is not as significant as the object of our worship. So let us devote our Sundays to holiness, worship, and rest and mindfully throw in a little respect in there too and PLEASE REMAIN SEATED WHILE THE SERVICE IS IN PROGRESS.

By Ijeoma Olujekun