In preaching from Psalm 84 recently Tim Thomassian referenced the “Sons of Korah.” These temple attendants from the Old Testament might seem to merely be a “behind the scenes” group of second-level importance compared to priests or prophets or kings. In reality, however, they were highly vital in helping the rest of God’s people to worship the Lord.

Last month, for the first time in over two years, we reinstituted many of our modern day “Sons of Korah.” Among many roles that are vital to our weekly corporate gathering, three very important ones are our greeters, our ushers, and our communion preparers. One on hand, the ways in which these wonderful men and women serve each week seems very simple and is often perhaps overlooked. And, if I’m honest, prior to covid, I think I took them for granted. However, my sense of the Lord’s presence at our weekly corporate gathering has exploded over the past few weeks as I have observed and interacted with those who serve in these ways.

When I see Will and Maggie Mehlferber helping their parents prepare and set out the communion trays, I am reminded that all of our unique family units combine to create a unique expression of our congregation as a church family before the Lord. When I am greeted at the door by Jonathan Clayton or given a worship guide by Tolu Kolapo I am reminded of the rich diversity of people that reflects God’s desire for all people to know him. When I am handed a communion tray by Jenifer Spears or Rusty Gray I am encouraged by their heart of service and reminded of how Christ served me on the cross.

Our modern day “Sons of Korah” remind me that there is a depth of experiencing the Lord that I can never achieve through personal reading of Scripture or listening to praise music in my car. Though these things are good, there is a tangible way in which we can encounter the Lord through others that only comes as we gather each week. Thanks to all of our “Sons of Korah” who demonstrate the love of Christ to us each and every Sunday!

Ben