Saturday, January 27, 2024

The Wonder of Worship

Daily Gratitude Year 12 - Day 27: Today, I am grateful for the wonder of worship. 

Humans were designed for relationships. More specifically, we were designed for a relationship with God and each other. Everyone worships something. Who or what we worship is reflected in how we spend our time and use our resources. 

Earlier this week, I read a devotional that talked about worship. It has stuck with me all we long. The synopsis is that when we worship, it is like "kissing God." The Greek word reflects that observation. And today, this was my verse or the day:

"For God is Spirit, so those who worship him must worship in spirit and in truth.” - John 4:24

The same word of worship is used twice in this verse:

Proskyneo: to kiss the hand to (towards) one, in token of reverence

The Greek definition also includes paying homage, showing respect, and even "on the knees, head to the ground" worship. The kiss is described like that of a dog kissing his master's hand.  it is a deeply felt and pure affection and adoration. 

Are our acts of worship well planned and intentional, or are they a soul, deep unadulterated response to a God who created us to walk with Him daily? 

On January 28, 1986, the Challenger exploded during take off. I was watching the television in "The Red Room" at Olivet, waiting for Randy to join me for lunch. The room was full of my fellow students. Christa McAuliffe, a schoolteacher, was onboard as a civilian who trained to join the mission. The world watched with excitement. 

Then the space shuttle exploded. We were all shocked into silence.  

We had no words. 

As President Ronal Reagan addressed the nation, I will never forget his words. "We will never forget them... as they prepared for their journey and waved goodbye and slipped the surly bonds of Earth to touch the face of God." 

I remember thinking how beautiful his words were. They somehow softened our grief. The idea of entering into the presence of God doing what they loved brought some comfort. 

Who do we worship today? Do we feel the wonder? 

 Today, I am grateful for the wonder of worship. 

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