Kingdom Worship
In this season, God is calling us back to Him—not just through routine worship, but through covenant. As we embark on the journey of Kingdom Worship, it’s vital to reflect on the foundational truths that anchor our faith and commitment to God. Today, we revisit the story of Abraham, the covenant of sacrifice, and the divine connection that God desires with us.
The Call to Covenant
God’s call to Abraham in Genesis 12:1 is profound:
"Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you."
Abraham’s obedience is striking. At 75 years old, with a life deeply rooted in the culture of Ur and the idolatry of his father’s house, Abraham heard the voice of God and stepped out in faith. This was not just a physical journey; it was a spiritual reorientation. God was drawing Abraham—and through him, humanity—into a covenant relationship.
The covenant was more than a promise; it was a divine contract. In Genesis 15:4-18, we see the depth of this agreement as God instructs Abraham to prepare a heifer, a symbol of the seriousness and sanctity of the covenant. Abraham knew this was not just a transaction; it was a moment of eternal significance.
A Blood Covenant
In the ancient world, covenants were often sealed with blood, symbolizing life, commitment, and permanence. God used this cultural understanding to communicate His divine promise. The covenant ceremony described in Genesis 15 was profound:
"On the same day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying: ‘To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt to the great river, the River Euphrates.’" (Genesis 15:18)
This blood covenant pointed to the ultimate sacrifice—Jesus Christ, whose blood would later be shed for the redemption of humanity. Hebrews 9:22 reminds us:
"Without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sins."
Connection Through Covenant
God’s covenant with Abraham reveals His desire for connection. From the beginning, God formed humanity with His own hands, breathing life into us (Genesis 2:7). This act of creation was deeply personal, establishing a connection that sin later disrupted. Yet, God’s love compelled Him to pursue us, making covenants and ultimately sending Jesus to restore what was lost.
In John 15:4, Jesus invites us:
"Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me."
This abiding is the essence of covenant. It’s a daily, intentional connection that transforms our hearts and lives.
Three Key Connections
As we navigate Kingdom Worship, we are reminded of three critical areas of connection:
- Connection to God: Our primary relationship must be with Him. Without this foundation, we are like branches disconnected from the vine, unable to bear fruit.
- Connection to Each Other: As members of the body of Christ, we are called to love and support one another (Galatians 6:2). This connection reflects God’s love and strengthens His church.
- Connection to the Community: Our faith must extend beyond the walls of the church. Matthew 5:14 declares:
"You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden."
We are called to be hope for our city, our nation, and the world.
Breaking Free from Disconnection
Disconnection is a tool of the enemy. Whether it’s through busyness, fear, or cultural Christianity, the enemy seeks to isolate us from God and one another. Yet, Romans 8:38-39 assures us that nothing can separate us from God’s love.
This year, let us commit to breaking free from disconnection. Let us embrace the covenant of sacrifice, living lives fully surrendered to God and deeply connected to His purpose.
A Call to Respond
Today, God is inviting you to renew your connection with Him. Like Abraham, He may be calling you to step out of what is familiar and comfortable. Will you say yes? Will you trust Him to lead you into a deeper relationship and greater purpose?
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, we thank You for Your covenant of love. We commit ourselves to You, asking for deeper connection in every area of our lives. Teach us to abide in You, to love one another, and to serve our community. May Your Spirit guide us as we walk in obedience to Your will. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Let this be the year of connection—connection to God, to each other, and to the community. Together, let us honor the covenant and live lives of true Kingdom Worship.