The "Aura"

A couple of days ago I had an interesting conversation with a fellow in Käsmu, my dad's home village. As we talked about cultural values everything from paintings to swords to coins, he mentioned something interesting he's noticed about churches. Many churches abroad seem to have a certain "aura" about them, something that can rarely be found in Estonian churches. And he can't figure out what makes certain churches feel so different.

As I pondered what he said, I started thinking about many of the churches I've visited over the years. I've been in church buildings that have left me completely cold, and other places I've visited are somehow alive and the presence of God can be felt. What I've also noticed it has very little to do with the confession or denomination of the church.

It became evident to me, what my new friend described was actually a very spiritual experience, although I'm not so sure he recognised it as this. Why is it that some churches have an "aura" but some do not. Scripture gives us some good clues...

Seems that God dwells not in structures but in the worship and praise of His people, however the aura of His presence can remain in a building for a time. 2 Chronicals 5:1-14 is an classic example of how God's presence fills the temple as His people worship Him. Verse 13 states:

"It came even to pass, as the trumpeters and singers were as one, to make one sound to be heard in praising and thanking the LORD; and when they lifted up their voice with the trumpets and cymbals and instruments of music, and praised the LORD, saying, For he is good; for his mercy endureth for ever: that then the house was filled with a cloud, even the house of the LORD"

Another scripture Matt 18:20 says "For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.", once again defining where God's presence can be found.

So where have our churches lost their "aura"? Perhaps instead of really worshiping the creator we're seeking some special feeling from the created. We look for the "aura" in anything from church buildings to church service, from man's creation to nature, completely neglecting to seek the one who the source of this wonderful "aura".

This "aura" cannot be contained in buildings or structures or places. Jesus once said "Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit,..". So His "aura" is within us, provided our lives are an act of worship to God. Consider this wherever your journey takes you today, whether to church, or walking in nature, or just sitting in the living room of your home.

And examine your own heart,.. do you sense His "aura" there?
.