In the Presence of the King

Imagine for a moment that you are in the throne room of a royal palace. Spectacular, isn't it?  You see the throne seating the king (or queen), the attendants and courtesans, the coat of arms and decorative windows, torches aflame, fancy clothing and pageantry, intricate artistry and splashes of color, music, and perhaps a banquet table with royal food.

This atmosphere is created not to make the monarch comfortable, but to remind visitors that they are in the presence of someone greater than them.

In Biblical times, temples and places of worship served as imitations and copies of the throne room of the gods or goddesses that were revered and served. It's no different in Lutheran churches today.  They are designed with the belief that God is the King who is worshiped through Jesus Christ, who has given us access to the throne room of the King.

The Biblical books of Hebrews and Revelation depict heaven not only as the abode of God but also as a temple.  Heaven is the true and everlasting temple which overcomes all rivals.  Our churches serve as temporary copies, but nevertheless a preview, of this eternal reality.  As such, Lutheran worship is an enactment of the worship that is taking place in heaven.  By his sacrifice on the cross, his being raised from the dead, and by his ascension to heaven, Jesus has granted access to the heavenly temple. Lutherans worship with the understanding that we are in the presence of someone greater than us: our gracious Lord and King.

As a king or queen sets the agenda in the throne room, so God sets the agenda in His throne room with His Word (royal proclamation) and His Son (royal offspring).  Both are gifts to us.  The Holy Spirit does His work through these means to set us apart as holy people.  This one truth permeates everything that is done in Lutheran worship-- the music, the order of service, the words, and the food (Holy Communion).  God is the One who gives His gifts of true forgiveness, real life, and eternal salvation.  We receive what we can never give to ourselves. God is really with us! We come with our baggage and brokenness to hear the good news that the King loves us unconditionally.  As such we can't give anything in return except thankfulness and praise to our Creator and Redeemer.

Trinity Lutheran Church on North Cedar Road in New Lenox invites you to see and experience all of this in action.  We would be honored if you did.  Our summer worship hours are Saturdays at 6pm and Sundays at 9am.