You may remember some time ago I referenced the writings of
Robert Schnase from his book, "Five Practices of Fruitful
Congregations." Since I don't
remember everything I covered in that blog article, some of what you read here
today might touch on some things you have already read. I recently picked up his book again when I
was looking for some ideas on explaining the worship experience and found some
input on the subject I wanted to share.
Mr. Schnase states when he is called up to lead worship, his
preparation is to aim the worship experience in two directions. One is to the
intellect of those who attend the worship, and second, he wants to focus on the
heart.
When I mention the worship experience, you will understand
the perspective from which I view worship carries with it the worship in the
churches I have attended from my youth, and now into my old age. Make no
mistake about it, if you are in the same church you were attending 50 years ago,
there have been some changes. Those who
have moved to different towns and attended different churches will notice even
more changes.
Those changes have also changed
us. We may become less judgmental if we attend a church that is more forgiving
when sins are brought to light. We may
rethink our position on miracles, or place more of an emphasis on missions, or
we could even learn something we had never learned before that would change us.
Having said all that, think with
me about how our worship experiences are aimed at our intellect. You may then want to ask yourself what part
of the worship has affected your intellect in any way? Perhaps you will think of a verse from the
Bible that opens your eyes to a new truth. Or it could be the testimony of
someone which allowed you to realize your need to be more open to others about
your feelings, your shortcomings, or your need for growth in knowledge. Can you see how worship needs to touch us
individually in this way?
The other focus is on the heart,
and while invisible to us, the effects are more visible. Has an old hymn ever
brought tears to your eyes during worship?
All of us will admit our hearts are moved with the reading of scriptures
like the 23rd Psalm. Baptism events
bring smiles of love from us all. Even
patting your foot to the beat of a lively praise song can be a visible proof of
worship affecting your heart.
I want us to all be aware of the importance
of intellect in worship as we learn and grow individually and as a church
body. I will be among the first to admit
it's when the heart is touched, to the point of visibly noticing changed
hearts, happy hearts, and excited hearts, that's when worship is changing us
for the better.
We are commanded to "grow
in the grace and knowledge of our Lord, Jesus Christ," and that
sometimes begins with worship. The
experiential touching of one's heart and bringing him closer to God is one of
the greatest accomplishments of our worship.
May God be praised; all glory belongs to Him.
<ronbwriting@gmail.com>
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