This is the first message in our new worship series, “Throughline.” Throughline refers to a theme or an idea that runs throughout a book, film or play. It is a reoccurring theme. What is consistent to our core or what should be consistent to our core as a church?

We begin by looking at the church through three lenses. The first lenses is a telescope lens. A telescope is used to look at the stars, to catch sight of the larger vision. It is an invitation to see the highlights of possibilities; to see the big, grand visions of what could be. We can forget to look at the stars, to dream, to think about what could be. Sometimes we forget how good God is and how good people can be. And so, we need to look once again through the telescope.

The second lens is a microscope lens. Unlike the big picture of a telescope, under a microscope you see everything. Through a microscope you see the complexity and messiness of life. The microscope is where you see flaws and blemishes. And it’s not always fun to let others see into your life this closely. But it’s worth it. To go under the microscope means we need to share, to be willing to listen, and to be willing to go when the Spirit says move. This means we can no longer be in control of our own lives or the life of the church. By examining ourselves and the church under a microscope, perhaps we can discover how to make the church radiant in God’s glory.

The third lens is a rearview mirror. A rearview mirror allows us to reflect on what once was. It is an opportunity to give thanks for the blessings of the past. But a rearview mirror also reminds us that we need to move forward. A rearview mirror challenges us, to paraphrase the Apostle Paul, to press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called us heavenward in Christ Jesus.