Worship

“God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship Him in spirit and truth.”                           John 4:24

What is worship? Well, in much of the Evangelical world, especially in the past 30-40 years, “worship” time has become synonymous with “worship music”. That is the music that precedes the pastor’s message. There is an earnest attempt to have the entire congregation become involved in singing (usually) contemporary music, led by singers and musicians in the front of the congregation.

There are various styles of musical worship, and of course, worship is not confined to the music, or even a certain type of music. Prayer, congregational readings and other liturgies may be involved to have the congregation united in acknowledging that Jesus is Lord.  

There are some “high liturgy churches” where the music is less contemporary, and there is more emphasis on readings and congregational response in reciting certain rites and liturgies. There may be a highly structured approach like the Catholic Church (also Presbyterian, Episcopal, Lutheran, and several other churches) where there is a “liturgical year”. This usually has a very prescribed worship practice, and every church of that denomination throughout the world is participating in the same liturgy.  

Finally, (and believe me, this list is far from comprehensive), there are Pentecostal types of worship which are much more spontaneous, less structured, and not overly time-bound to the typical “one hour” service. The music, dancing, testimonies and prayer may precede a lengthy message. Then more music may ensue. It is led by the Spirit, not confined by time.

While I like music, the “worship” time for me is not defined by the Sunday gathering. Our pastor is a gifted communicator, and he brings an excellent message each week, but that is also not my “worship time”. In fact, my idea of worship, where I can really connect with God, is when I am in service to His people. I find that my time with clients is really like a worship of God.

Certainly not all of my clients are Christians, or even necessarily believers in any organized faith tradition. Many are Christians, of course, but it does not really matter if we are discussing God’s place in their life or not. We are connecting on a very important level. They have chosen to discuss with me very intimate and often painful parts of their life. That is a precious connection- one that I hold to be sacred. I can, and do, affirm God’s special place in all of us since we are physical, spiritual, and emotional beings. I can serve God best by serving his people, and loving them right where they are.

That, to me, is worship.    

Prayer: Lord, you have given us the opportunity to serve you by serving others. What a marvelous plan, Amen