My "Religious" Excursion

Believe it or not - today I entered a Roman Catholic Church for the first time in my life. I was waiting in the church's garden studying for my two finals tomorrow, and I decided to wander into the sanctuary.

The first thing I noticed were the kneeling benches in the pews. I couldn't help thinking how amazing those would be at Parker Hill. Evangelical Churches just don't have kneeling benches. Why not?

The next thing I noticed was the unbelievable architecture of the building itself. I immediately crossed my arms behind me in respect for the grandeur that surrounded me. The decor is insane - I couldn't help but stand in awe at the majesty of Jesus Christ as he stared at me from the largest crucifix I've ever seen in my life.

Strange, the Christ I know isn't on the cross anymore.

The choir loft and the organ are placed behind the congregation up on a second level balcony. The congregation doesn't get distracted from the worship leaders. How cool is that?

There were about 10-12 marble carvings that encircled the sanctuary telling the story of Christ's death. As I followed these marble carvings, I ran into Mary's Altar. There she was - the Mother of Christ. Oddly enough - across from Mary's Altar was a statue of Christ himself.

There was NO prayer altar for Christ. Only Mary.

That broke my heart.

In a sense, I wish that I had more respect, awe, fear, and trembling when I go to church. This building fostered an incredible sense of respect, awe, fear, and trembling. I would be a fool to not acknowledge this spiritual weakness in my life. In that sense, I wish I was Catholic - to foster that respect, awe, fear, and trembling before God.

There's a problem though...

My God is alive - no longer on the cross.
My God paid the price - I don't have to.
My God answers my prayers - not Mary.