Shout for Joy

Psalm 100 begins with these words: “Shout for joy to the Lord, all the earth. Worship the Lord with gladness”.

From as far back as I can remember, my family went to church every Sunday. But it wasn’t until I was in college that my experience of worship deepened and became more meaningful. In one class, we attended a worship service and were challenged to look for examples during the hour that would speak to our senses. It became an interesting and new way to worship for me.

Each week I arrive early and go into the sanctuary to see what is on the altar. The sight of flowers, greenery, the cross or the communion elements immediately speak to my senses. So let’s take a look at how I use them in worship.

In Matthew 6:22 Jesus says: “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are good, your whole body will be full of light.” During worship, all of our thoughts and actions should be centered on God. What do you “see” that helps you to worship? the beautiful banners? the joy on someone’s face as they sing the songs of praise? the sunlight coming through the stain-glass windows, the enthusiasm of the singers . . .

Then we are reminded in Matthew 13:9: “Everyone who has ears should pay attention.” What happens in worship is important, so stay focused. What message is there for me that will help to keep me on the straight & narrow path? the spoken word, the singing, the instrumental music, a greeting, the words of scripture . . .

II Corinthians 2:14b-15a says “God uses us to make knowledge about Christ spread everywhere like a sweet fragrance”. God uses us to introduce non-believers to Him. The words that come out of our mouths can either be sweet or they can be destructive. How are you doing? Or, maybe for you it’s the fragrance of the altar flowers, the bread and juice of communion . . .

In Psalm 119:103 we read – “Your word is so pleasing to my taste buds.” Sometimes I have to take the words of the scripture, psalter or sermon inside and meditate over them. What do you need to ”taste” and experience . . .

I Corinthians 16:20 – “Greet each other with a holy kiss.” Or a handshake, a hug or an encouraging word of welcome . . .

Our senses do have a place in worship. Polish yours up and try using them!

Written by Jeannie Hamrick