Spirit of God
Stop.
As you breathe in, say: “Spirit of God, fill my heart.” As you exhale, say: “Spirit of God, I worship you.” Repeat as many times as you need.
Listen.
O come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation! – Psalm 95:1
Reflect.
The way we think of worship has changed in the past year and a half. Distancing, digital options, abbreviated services, and liturgy sung from our cars have all been part of our lives. Without the common refrain of “the way we’ve always done it”, what should worship even look like now? Knowing what’s possible (for better and for worse), what do we want to continue and what do we want to leave behind?
Starting Sunday (June 6), our services will focus on the many elements of worship. Sermons, prayer, music, a creed, sacraments, confession and forgiveness – some of the parts of worship will be familiar to you, others less familiar, some completely unknown. All summer, we’ll go deeper into what these elements of worship mean for us as Christians, Lutherans, and worshipers at Easter. Together, this community can listen for what the Spirit is up to among us as we return to and reimagine worship post-pandemic.
The first reading we’ll use in this sermon series come from Psalm 95. Many psalms are about worship as they were used for worship, whether personal or corporate. This verse reminds us of the important role of song in worship. It’s one thing I’ve missed greatly in worship experiences since singing first drew me into worship as a child. I’m looking forward to making some joyful noise together!
Whether spoken or sung, together or alone, liturgical or spontaneous, choreographed or casual, we give thanks for worship’s place in our faith lives and pledge to think seriously about what it means for us today.
Pray.
I lift my voice to you, God – in prayer, in lament, in conversation, and in worship. Thank you for the opportunity to come to you. Make me wise and faithful in my worship, now and always. Amen.
Carry On.
What’s your earliest memory of Christian worship? Share that story with someone this week – and ask them the same question.