Worship is a participatory “sport.” It’s not something you see or view; it’s something you do.
Think of the elemental aspects we know about worship.
First, worship is assumed. Everyone needs to worship, and worship must be given to the Creator of the universe.
By his example Jesus showed us the necessity of worship. He joined with other people in Israel to worship God. On several occasions, the New Testament tells us how He went to the synagogue to worship as “His custom was.” Worship was part of His normal pattern of living. It should be the same for us.
Second, worship is our way of ascribing worth to God. Our word for worship comes from the word “worth.” God is worthy of our worship. The Book of Revelation states this over and over: “You are worthy, Our Lord and God, to receive glory and honor and power, for you created all things, and by your will they were created and have their being” (Revelation 4:11).
Third, real worship involves our participation. Can worship be worship if we do not participate? Worship is not a spectator sport; it involves our participation.
Both the Old Testament and the New Testament give us basic elements of worship. In the Scripture, it involves participation by the worshiper. Music, prayers, offerings, and the reading and expounding of the Word of God are basic.
One of the disturbing aspects of worship in America is our lack of participation. The language of worship is all about verbs; it is what we do. God calls us to exalt Him and praise His name. We bow down and prostrate ourselves before the greatness of God. We sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs. All of this is the language of participation. We can never really worship until we participate.
In heaven, worship will be participatory. We need to get ready for worshiping in heaven by practicing on earth.
Finally, worship comes from our heart and brings us close to the heart of God. When we come before God in worship He calls for clean hands (outward actions) and pure hearts (the inward person). He desires us to give Him all that we are. In true worship, we give Him our best.
May we be people who worship our God and exalt His name. “To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power, for ever and ever!” (Revelation 5:13).
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One Response
Interesting how case history is selective.
Interesting how critical thinking is often set to a negative default.
Interesting, the lessons of life are summed up in the life of David.
No wonder the saying, “Ignorance is Bliss,” has such staying power. Ignorance (even if feigned) allows one to have plausible deniability, to keep what affects the public: private. To eat, drink and be merry; enjoying the vanity of life while forsaking the positive eternal action seems to be a default setting for most lives. The Golden Rule of the Flesh is on trial everywhere. I am thankful for glimpses of the Royal Golden Rule being applied. My spirit sings with the Angles at such times. Indeed it is then that the devils which also believe there is One God do tremble.
Worship (Romans 12:1-5) is indeed a participatory sport.
Blessings