Last week I had the blessing of going to see Hillsong United live. I’ll admit that I haven’t really listened to a lot of their music, but I did know a few of their songs. As I listened to this incredibly gifted group of individuals use their gifts to glorify God, I became overwhelmed. Our seats were off to the side, but close to the front. I had the perfect seat to scan and look out to the rest of the people that had gathered to worship alongside Hillsong.
The best way to describe it is to use a line from one of Hillsong’s own songs. The lyric is “so I’ll stand with arms high and heart abandoned”. A sea of people was standing for nearly the entirety of the 3-hour worship performance. Arms were raised high in praise of “the One who gave it all”. Hearts were abandoned as His glorious name was shouted out from among the people.
There would be breaks in between the singing and people from the crowd would cry out the name of Jesus. The tone one man’s voice I can hear even now. His deep voice was distinct from a crowd of hundreds as he gave glory to God. He wasn’t emotional, but rather strong and sure of his Savior. It was a stark contrast to the man that stood right in front of me. He stood the whole time, but rather than being moved by the atmosphere he chose to Facebook live the entire thing. He was never able to raise his arms or voice in praise.
I sat in my chair overwhelmed. Do I give confidence to others through the sureness and strength I have in my Savior? What do people see of me when I stand in the crowd? Have I abandoned my own self to glorify Him or am I distracted by things of the world? Am I a participant or a spectator? I challenge not only myself but you as well. Let’s put down the distractions of the world and be present in His presence.
Sunshine and Whispers 