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The Power of Repentance in Our Worship
Renewing our hope: The book of haggai
The opening verses of Haggai set the stage as it paints a picture of a people who have returned from exile and are tasked with rebuilding the temple in Jerusalem. Yet, amid the grandeur of Babylon, where they lived, and the allure of personal pursuits, they failed to prioritize God's house and, ultimately, their worship. Instead, they pursued the wisdom of man saying, "The time has not come, even the time for the house of the Lord to be rebuilt" (Haggai 1:2).
Sadly, this sentiment resonates with many today. Caught in the whirlwind of daily life, we may inadvertently sideline our spiritual commitments or place them on the back burner! Yet, Haggai's message penetrates our excuses as he cries out and challenges us to, "consider our ways" and repent (Haggai 1:5, 7). To combat the excuses, Haggai reminds the people that God has a purpose for them and they needed to return to Him!
First, he highlights the importance of them being the right people. The people who returned to Jerusalem were not a random assortment; they were individuals with a special devotion to the Lord, willing to forsake comfort and convenience for the sake of His house. Their example reminds us that God uses ordinary people, like us, with faith to accomplish His purposes. From Abraham to Paul, the Bible is full of flawed individuals whom God used mightily for his glory!
Second, Haggai emphasizes the people are in the right place. Jerusalem held a unique place in the hearts of God's people, symbolizing His presence. Similarly, our lives are anchored in specific contexts and places, where God calls us to be ambassadors of His grace and truth. Whether in the bustling streets of a city or the quiet corners of a rural area, our mission remains unchanged: to proclaim the gospel and demonstrate God's love to those around us. Like the remnant who returned to Jerusalem, we must embrace our role in the places God has planted us and grow there!
Third, he draws our attention to the importance of the right project. The remnant wasted no time in prioritizing the reconstruction of the temple, demonstrating their commitment to God's work above their own interests. Their sacrificial giving and labor reflected a singular focus on honoring and pleasing the Lord. Just like the children of Israel, our lives should be marked by devotion to God's kingdom work through our willingness to work and witness, serve and sacrifice!
Finally, Haggai directs our attention to the right priorities. The people's initial zeal waned over time, as they became entangled in their own pursuits, neglecting the house of the Lord. Yet, God's admonition to "consider your ways" reverberates through the corridors of history, compelling us to reassess our priorities in light of eternity, repent, and seek to worship God above all!
In a world consumed by temporal pursuits and fleeting pleasures, we are reminded of the fleeting pleasure of earthly endeavors. Like the people of Haggai's time, we may sow much but reap little, unless our labor is aligned with God's will and His glory. As we reflect on the timeless truths of Haggai's prophecy, may we heed its call to repent and renew our worship. Let us be the right people, in the right place, engaged in the right project, with the right priorities. In doing so, we fulfill our ultimate purpose! What is the chief end of man? Answer: To glorify God and enjoy him forever! (WCF SC Question 1)
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