JOY in WORSHIP

It was a long drive to the small church in the country. On my way I was aware of how many other churches I was passing by. I wondered what would be preached, whether God's presence would be felt and if people's hearts would be moved closer to God by their worship experience that morning. The drive afforded me the opportunity to pray and to prepare my heart for what God desired. It was during my prayers that I realized I was anticipating being at this country church that morning.

I have been to the church twice before and each time I have been struck by the enthusiasm of those in worship and by physically feeling the anointing of God's Spirit upon his church. There is an atmosphere of anticipatory joy as the choir gathers and prepares to open the service with hymns so well known that many just sing from their hearts.

I found their joy in praising God contagious. As I was being drawn into the opening worship experience, suddenly, I was aware that there was a grandfather in the back row of the choir, singing the bass melody with enthusiasm making the hymns come alive. But there was more. He had each arm around a child (one standing on the pew, the other on the top of the pew) and they too were joining in as they could, singing, clapping and raising their hands in praise. Then I noticed another woman supporting a small child who was standing on the pew and watching her mother sing, clapping and praising when her mother did. I found myself praising God for their hearts of worship and for how this church was passing on the joy it can bring.

The pastor, a somewhat older shepherd, read God's Word and spoke as I imagine Paul may have spoken. His words were plain but his passion and love for God spoke louder than any words. God's Spirit was on him, gently guiding his words beyond those he had written on his notes.

After his message, as we prepared to share in the bread and the juice of holy communion, there was an anticipatory atmosphere among those present. As we served communion, behind me at the altar rail a faint voice momentarily captured my attention; it was the grandfather praying with his granddaughters. Each girl also prayed quietly and then I heard all three say, "Amen." In front of me were those receiving the tangible of love of Jesus. Looking into each person's eyes, it was evident that this was a holy and sacred blessing for them.

As I drove the long drive home and passed by the many churches I found myself thanking God that I had the privilege of worshipping at that small rural church with a heart for God. What a blessing it was to witness and be a part of praising God for the joy of salvation and the witness of that joy one to another.

Have thine own way, Lord, have Thine own way; Thou art the Potter, I am the clay. Mould me and make me after Thy will, While I am waiting, yielded and still.

Have Thine own way, Lord, have Thine own way; Hold o’er my being absolute sway. Fill with Thy Spirit till all shall see Christ only, always, living in me.