“Worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness, come let us adore him.”
“The Book of Common Prayer,” pg. 81
One of the most important things we as Christians are called to do is to worship God. Whether individually or collectively, worship is a time in which we turn and give our attention to Him. It is more than a physical act. It is both an act of our heart and an act of our mind. It all begins with desire. This desire, planted within each of our souls, is a hunger that yearns to be filled. Worship is a way to fill that desire. It is a way of satisfying our deepest longings by making a connection with God.
Over the years, I’ve learned even more about the importance of worship. Making a connection with God reminds me of who I am and to whom I belong. Not only do I belong to God, but worship is proof of my need for God. Worship is simply my way of responding to God.
One of my favorite characters in all of Scripture is King David. Throughout his story (1 and 2 Samuel), we are introduced to a man who had a heart for God. His love for God was deep. Long before he was anointed as king, his relationship with God stood out. His connection was undeniable and it was clear his desire was for God. David, like all of us, was chosen from the beginning. Faced with many challenges and obstacles, his faith weathered many storms. It was in his struggles, when he took his eyes off God and the connection was lost, that we learn something different about him. Aware of his humanity, David comes to terms with himself, acknowledges his shortcomings, repents and returns to God. It is his humble heart and his deep desire for God that leads him back to a place of worship.
I don’t know about you, but the older I get, the more I’m drawn to that place of worship. Much more aware of myself and my own shortcomings, I find myself less distracted and open to His presence which is all around me. I see things a bit more clearly and I find myself less anxious. As the world around me seems to spin more and more out of control, I rest in knowing God is really my only constant. He is the same yesterday, today and, most importantly, tomorrow. With God as my anchor, I find myself less fearful as my desire has become more and more saturated with Him.
“As for God, his way is perfect; The Lord’s word is flawless; he shields all who take refuge in him. For who is God besides the Lord? And who is the rock except our God? It is God who arms me with strength and keeps my way secure.”
2 Samuel 22: 31-33, NIV
