Chosen To Change The Atmosphere

On Sunday, May 3rd 2026 Pastor Matt Cottrill's message centers on our divine calling to change the atmosphere wherever we find ourselves through genuine, unrestrained worship. Drawing from Mark 14:3-9, we explore the story of a woman who broke an alabaster box of precious ointment over Jesus while others sat in familiar comfort, criticizing her extravagant display. The core revelation here is profound: God is complete within Himself, needing nothing from us, yet He created us with the specific purpose and capacity to respond to His presence. Our praise is not about sustaining God's identity but about aligning ourselves with our created purpose. The woman's act of breaking—not just opening—the box represents total surrender, releasing what we cannot take back or control. While those closest to Jesus sat unmoved by familiarity, this desperate woman changed everything through her unrestrained response. We learn that desperation will always respond where familiarity remains silent. The challenge before us is clear: we cannot wait for perfect circumstances, right feelings, or ideal moments to worship. Like Paul and Silas who praised in chains before the earthquake came, we must understand that we do not wait for the atmosphere to change—we bring the atmosphere with us. Our breakthrough exists on the other side of our worship, and we are chosen to be atmosphere-changers in our homes, workplaces, and communities through the power of uninhibited praise.