[annalex]

Prophets and psalmists would probably say of us that 'there is no fear of God before their eyes.' In public worship our habit is to slouch or squat; we do not kneel nowadays, let alone prostrate ourselves in humility before God. It is more characteritisc of us to clap our hands with joy than to blush with shame or tears.

The parable of the publican and a pharisee at prayer comes to mind.

[P-Marlowe]

The parable of the publican and a pharisee at prayer comes to mind.

Somehow I think that the Pharisees would have been the ones criticizing the posture of the publican.

What business is it of yours whether the guy next to you is kneeling or slouching or clapping his hands in joy? Seems to me that there is simply too much emphasis on judging others by their appearances. Oh, I'm holier than him because I wear an Armiani suit to church and he wears blue jeans. Oh, I'm holier than him because I sit up straight and he slouches. Oh, I'm holier than him because my face is dour and he is smiling. God forbid that anyone should have joy in the Lord in Church.

/rant