Happy Monday Church!

I love the Chip-Off.

Every year our church gathers on the playground of Angell Elementary to enjoy plates of chocolate chip cookies, friendly competition, laughter, and more sugar than any of us probably need. It is hands down my favorite event of the year. The Chip-Off creates space for community and provides a natural opportunity to invite friends and neighbors into the life of our church. Community and Mission together in one event. But what if I told you the Chip-Off is also a beautiful act of worship?

Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 10:31, "So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God."

Eat, drink, or do, that is pretty all encompassing. It includes chocolate chip cookies (yes, even those containing watermelon or grapes), delicious pork smoked with care by the Broomes, and the everyday moments that make up most of our lives.

Worship isn’t confined to songs sung on Sunday mornings. Worship happens when we take what the Lord has given us and use it to honor Him. This happens when a computer programmer writes clean, thoughtful code as an offering to the Lord. Or when a receptionist greets each person who walks through the door with kindness and dignity. It happens when a teacher patiently explains a concept one more time, a parent cleans up messes, a student studies diligently, and it happens when a church family gathers around a table laden with plates of cookies. These are all opportunities to bring glory to God. To worship Him for who He is.

So yes, I love the Chip-Off because it is fun (and I get to sample all the cookies). I love it because it builds community. I love it because it creates opportunities for invitation and hospitality. But I also love it because it is worship.

I would encourage you to consider how you might see the ordinary events of your life as worship this week. This simple shift in perspective can help us to be present and faithful in the everyday challenges of life, like sampling your fifth cookie of the day.

Steveie, on Behalf of the Elder and Minister Team