Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker;
Psalms 95:6 NIV
Have you ever noticed the different ways in which people worship? In some traditions, such as Methodist, we are structured to stand, sit, and bow as invited. In the evangelical tradition in which I was raised, you might stand, shout, and dance as the Spirit moves. In some practices, people cover their heads in respect; in others, this is considered disrespectful. Yet others, like Moses encountering God at the burning bush, remove their shoes before entering upon holy ground.
Today's verse suggests bowing and kneeling -- something many of us find difficult as we age. While traditions vary, the only thing that truly matters is our attitudes towards God. We must have pure and repentant hearts, entering into his presence with humility and awe. We can be sitting in your favorite chair, standing in line at the coffee shop, or lying prostrate on the floor -- when our hearts are right, the how, when and how have little relevance. Our omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent God is approachable at all times and places when we have an attitude of worship.
Almighty God, we come to you now in worship. We come broken and contrite, acknowledging we are sinners saved by your grace. You are our Creator, Redeemer, and Sanctifier, and we come offering our simple praise for all of your good gifts. We ask your blessings on all we do, and may our actions glorify you. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
