I’m guilty.

Too often I come to my Lord with requests. Do this, heal them, give me that. Knowing that God is the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17), I solicit these gifts often. I know Who provides, so I ask. And ask. And ask. Then, I behave as a “good” person so that I can receive even more because I know that those who are pure in heart, meek, and hungry for the Word are blessed (Matt.5).

But then I read passages like Luke 23:6-8 and I feel guilty.

When Pilate heard of Galilee, he asked if the Man were a Galilean. And as soon as he knew that He belonged to Herod’s jurisdiction, he sent Him to Herod, who was also in Jerusalem at that time. Now when Herod saw Jesus, he was exceedingly glad; for he had desired for a long time to see Him, because he had heard many things about Him, and he hoped to see some miracle done by Him.

Why was Herod excited to be in Jesus’ presence? Was it not so that he could watch a show? Didn’t Herod only want to see Jesus so that he could see a miracle? Basically, Herod wanted to benefit from seeing Jesus; he didn’t care anything about Jesus’ needs.

Sometimes, I go to both my God and my Savior with a similar mindset. What can I get out of Them? Healing? Financial security? Freedom from persecution? Why am I asking for these things? Is it not for what I can benefit? Instead, I should be excitedly going into God’s presence asking that His will be done (Luke 22:42, 1 John 5:14).  That even if it brings me physical pain, even physical death, bring it on! So long as the needs of the Kingdom are met, my life is expendable.

But that’s hard. It’s hard to keep the proper mindset when worshipping and when praying. It’s easier to focus upon self and what feels good or seems right. But always, with every prayer, I should acknowledge that God’s will is above my wants. Always, in every worship assembly, I should acknowledge that God’s expectations are above my entertainment. It is never, ever about getting a show from the Creator and Savior. Instead, it is always about coming humbly into Their presence knowing that I am nothing except a willing servant of the Almighty.

My prayer for today is simply a prayer of here am I, send me. No strings attached; no earthly requests or physical favors expected. Just pure adoration and thanksgiving.