Mimics have an endearing stlye. Take tge comic impressionists for example.
Their ability to nail down behaviours is often uncanny and the realism with which they deliver their piece can be so close to the original it is truly remarkable. I used to watch comedians doing spot on impersonations that delivered q good copy of their intended target.
For all that, however, they will always lack the substance and depth of the original. For it is that unique quality of the real deal that can never be imitated.
It’s a bit like the difference between an idol and the Living God. The appatent sway and dedication to the idol suggest it has god-like abilities and powers. Often people find their entire beings wrapped around the ebbs and flows of the idol demands. Consciously aware or completely oblivious, that devotion almost suggests the idol wields what the One Holy God wields.
The effects appear convincing. Yet as we go deeper and contrast what the idols really are with the depth and sheer substance of who God reveals Himself to be in the words, the prophets and kings, culminating in Jesus the difference is significant. Indeed so wide is the chasm of difference it cannot begun to be filled.
In the same way our culture, upbringing and certain role models can be examples we imitate when it comes to church. We can recite verses, catchphrases and the key christian clichés. We can evoke a favourable reaction through certain physical techniques and speaking styles. We can copy what’s around and conform to those standards. In doing so, however, we crucially fail to appreciate that the only worship interesting to God is one birthed in the Truth full of the Holy Spirit.
This requires acknowledging who God created you to be and returning thanks to Him by being ourselves. Not mimicking others, not thinking there’s a formula gets God on our side to do our bidding.
Rather, in a manner consiatent with who we are, we abandon self and fully embrace the great one who lives in us.
That real worship might not float the boats of others or be pleasing to the powers that be. The only power that matters, though, encourages and liberates you to worship in this manner, knowing that this is where God communes as friend with friend. This is where love takes place from which comes growth and service.
This authentic worship continues to be my heart’s desire for those with whom I fellowship. It continues to be my own desire that shapes and guides my daily living. All in the hope that when someone encounters me, they’re not coming across an intelligent and eloquent mimic. Rather they will experience God as revealed in Chriat to me by the Holy Spirit.
There is no time for mimic worship. Now is the time for authentic worship.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 