Enter the Gates

Psalm 100 proclaims we are to enter God’s gates with thanksgiving, but what does that mean? What are the gates to which we enter?

When my boys walk into our house after school, they usually discard their backpacks and shoes near the front door and head off to their rooms. They don’t often greet us or even acknowledge the fact that their mother and I even exist! I know that they love us, but you wouldn’t think it by the way they greet (or fail to greet us) when they arrive home. When others enter our home, they at least acknowledge our presence. It would seem quite strange to enter someone’s house without acknowledging their presence, right?

I believe this is what the Psalmist was referring to when proclaiming that we are to enter God’s gates with thanksgiving and God’s court with praise. Psalm 100 is a Psalm of praise and gratitude for God’s presence and all that God has provided. Everyday we are to acknowledge God and demonstrate our gratitude, but much like my sons have done with us, I take for granted the presence of God in my life.

This Sunday when you enter the church, enter the doors with gratitude. Today, when you enter your home, enter with praise to God. Let every door, every gate, and every passage be a reminder of the presence of God in your life and be thankful. Join us this Sunday for worship at 8:30 and 10:45 AM as we dive deeper into Psalm 100 and how we can make gratitude our proper response to the God who is ever present.

In God’s grip,

Pastor Chuck Church