Sanctuary |ˈsaNG(k)CHo͞oˌerē| noun
1 a place of refuge or safety:
2 a nature reserve:
3 a holy place; a temple or church.
A sanctuary, in its original meaning, is a sacred
place. We typically associate the word sanctuary with a cathedral, or
large/old church meeting hall, likely with stained glass somewhere in the
windows. And yet a lot of modern churches simply don't look like that.
Does that mean they aren't sanctuaries? What really makes a place
sacred?
Maybe it's the place we find God. Scripture supports
this concept in Psalm 26:8, "I love your sanctuary, Lord, the place
where Your glorious presence dwells." You might say that David's
sanctuary was in the temple. But, David in fact also found God's presence
well away from the temple, while he was on the run, and in hiding. So,
it's not necessarily a church building.
Many of us were raised to think sanctuary was the place to
be well-behaved and well-dressed! Is this what you remember about church
growing up? I haven't found anything in the Bible yet wearing a suit and
tie to church, but there are many references to being reverent
and showing respect. The Lord says, "...show reverence toward my
sanctuary. I am the Lord." - Leviticus 19:30.
So, where is our sacred place and what are we to do there?
I'd like to suggest that a sanctuary represents the place we choose to
acknowledge God's presence and pause to listen for His voice/guidance.
This could literally be anywhere! In your car, on a park bench, in
your backyard or basement. God invites us into his presence anytime and
anywhere. And as for what to do there… just offer yourself… nothing more,
nothing less.
"At his sanctuary I will offer sacrifices with shouts
of joy, singing and praising the Lord with music." - Psalm 27:6
Where is your sanctuary? How does this place play a
role in your faith? Your spiritual, and emotional health?
No comments:
Post a Comment