We need benediction-free worship–interaction with Jesus that never ends. Church benedictions seem to put the brakes on God by saying, “The spiritual part’s over, now get on with your life.”

If you worship the glorious God who never ends, it’s misleading to declare a benediction that’s says the time for worship’s over. Church benedictions are a fancy way to say, “The end.” They aren’t true. “We are now done with worship.” Never! Worship is an ongoing lifestyle.

Perhaps the benediction is a tool to protect our addiction to avoiding God. It helps us draw near to God with our words but keep our heart away from His ongoing control.

How a benediction is often perceived: “Church is over now so you can ignore God until next Sunday.” It can be a polite way to close the door on God.

The truth is that Christian spirituality has no closure–no on and off button. If it’s not ongoing it’s substandard. It’s based on continual dependency on Jesus, not on closure.

Religious control or religious chaos are not the only choices for Christianity. Spirit-directed meetings that train people to live an ongoing, Spirit-led lifestyle are the forgotten option.

And now for the benediction . . . (I’m not giving one. Instead, stay focused on the living Jesus both day and night.)