Unlikely Worship Series

Series: Jesus- Son Of Man [#25]

UNLIKELY WORSHIP

Luke 7:36-50

Introduction:

This morning, we will see how Jesus’ presence challenges us to think differently about worship. Our text reminds us that real worship is not about being perfect or having a certain social status. Instead, true worship comes from humility, thankfulness, and knowing we need God's grace. As we look at this story, we will see how a woman, seen by many as sinful, shows worship that Jesus praises- A worship based on love and turning to Him in repentance.

I want to tell you a story that I have told many times; but it fits this perfectly. I was a 20-year-old Worship and Youth Pastor in a very run down area of Albuquerque. I spent my time with many kids that were neglected on a regular basis. These were rowdy children constantly doing the wrong thing. My 81-year-old pianist helped me put together a Children’s Choir. This Choir of unruly children began to sing at other small congregations in town, and they did well. I showed up to Church 1 Sunday Morning and Mrs. Jarrett said that our Children’s Choir had been invited to sing at the largest, fanciest Church in town.

I have to admit that I was shocked; but agreed with Mrs. Jarrett that we should do it. 12 of the children were from 1 family; and it was a terrible family situation. These children were dirty, they stunk and they had lice. I had several of my College friends help me get them new clean clothes. My female College friends treated each child’s lice and gave them haircuts.

So, the night of our concert arrived and the children, Mrs. Jarrett, and I arrived at this massive building. The stage alone was larger than our little Church. There were probably a 1,000 people there and we began to sing. We only had Mrs. Jarrett playing- The Church’s Orchestra received a night off; but those kids sang. It was an amazing night of worship and when we got to our last song, I was so proud; but we were not done. As the Pastor of this Mega-Church was walking to the stage, a 10-year-old little girl began to sing a song that we had not practiced. With no accompaniment, she began to sing, “What can I give to the King? Give to the One who has everything? What can I give? What gift can I bring? What can I give to the King? That night was life changing for me. I was taking voice lessons at UNM and singing in Operas. I was used to all of the lights and performance; but that night a little girl taught me that worship of God was not about lights, orchestras, and perfection.

This morning, we see a woman whose past might have kept her away from religious people; but she chose to come close to Jesus with love and courage. She anointed His feet and wiped them with her tears. Her actions show that worship is about humility and thankfulness inside us. As we learn from her, let us remember that Jesus invites all of us, (no matter our past or what others think) to worship Him sincerely. Jesus cares more about what is in our hearts than about how we look on the outside.

Luke 7:36-38

Worship is unexpected when it…

1. Comes from those most unlikely to be appreciated.

We see a surprising example of worship from an unlikely person- A woman who was considered sinful and judged by others. Despite her shame and what people thought of her, she chose to approach Jesus with humility, tears, and love. The Bible shows us that real worship comes from a sincere heart that recognizes our need for God's forgiveness. It teaches us that even those who feel unworthy can worship God genuinely. Practically, this means we should have humble hearts and remember that true worship isn’t about how we look or what others think; but about loving Jesus from our hearts. When we worship with humility and honesty, our praise can be powerful and unexpected, showing God's grace working in our lives.

This story teaches us that God's love and acceptance are open to everyone, no matter their past or what others say about them. A practical way to apply this is to focus on genuine worship that comes from the heart, not just going through the motions. As followers of Jesus, we should see others the way God does, (with love and acceptance) especially those who might be considered “least likely” by society. When we worship with humility and love, it can surprise people and even change how we see ourselves and others. Ultimately, this passage reminds us that when we come to Jesus sincerely, our worship can be unexpected, powerful, and can help transform not only us but also those around us.