Instead of a Show-Jon Foreman

I hate all your show and pretense
the hypocrisy of your praise
the hypocrisy of your festivals
I hate all your show

Away with your noisy worship
Away with your noisy hymns
I stop up my ears when your
singing ‘em
I hate all your show

Instead let there be a flood
of justice
An endless procession of righteous
living, living
Instead let there be a flood
of justice
Instead of a show

People like to put on a big show in God's name. They bring in famous speakers, musicians, or leaders to "go big" for God. They spend tons of money on fancy buildings, elaborate lights, and shiny gadgets to catch peoples eyes; but all they have is empty entertainment. That is not what God wants from us. He knows that those who seek Him are not impressed with grandeur and pompous social occasions. All these gatherings are more of a way of showing off to each other rather than praising God. Instead, God desires we use our time, talent, and money on helping those in need. His heart is for justice and mercy:

I hate, I reject your festivals,

Nor do I delight in your solemn assemblies.

"Even though you offer up to Me burnt offerings and your grain offerings,

I will not accept them;

And I will not even look at the peace offerings of your fatlings.

"Take away from Me the noise of your songs;

I will not even listen to the sound of your harps.

"But let justice roll down like waters

And righteousness like an ever-flowing stream Amos 5:21-24

If our lives are full of sin and evil, God will reject us no matter what show we put on. Our focus should be on our inward righteousness and holiness. Would we put the same efforts in our lives if we knew God was the only one watching? Let us remember that God cares more about our holiness than happiness and more about our character than comfort.