Scripture: Psalm 66:1-3a
Shout joyfully to God, all the earth! Sing praises to the glory of God’s name! Make glorious his praise! Say to God: “How awesome are your works!”
Thought for the Day: Richard Foster, the author of the book Celebration of Discipline, wrote:
Just as worship begins in holy expectancy, it ends in holy obedience. If worship does not propel us into greater obedience, it has not been worship. To stand before the Holy One of eternity is to change.
At the Ash Wednesday Service, I emphasized the importance of change. The Season of Lent is specifically designed for a reshaping of self, as it encourages us to be intentional with our introspection. We are challenged to look within ourselves, ask tough questions, to surrender ourselves to the Spirit and utilize the tangible steps of confession and repentance.
Worship is one of our Spiritual Practices, yet worship has too often become more about feeling good in the moment instead of a reshaping of self that leads toward greater obedience beyond the walls of the sanctuary. Throughout the season of Lent, we could have as many as ten corporate worship experiences. If we anticipate God’s presence and the possibility of change, then a greater obedience most certainly will emerge.
Prayer: We sing your praises, O God, and acknowledge your awesome works. Allow our worship to create within us hearts that honor you more and more each day. This we offer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
SEE YOU SUNDAY
We will begin our Lenten Worship Series
