Today’s verse: John 4:23-24
“It’s who you are and the way you live that count before God. Your worship must engage your spirit in the pursuit of truth. That’s the kind of people the Father is out looking for: those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship. God is sheer being itself—Spirit. Those who worship him must do it out of their very being, their spirits, their true selves, in adoration.”
I love the words in this verse, “those who are simply and honestly themselves before him in their worship.” I feel this is authentic and genuine worship. Years ago my friends and I decided to go to a Taizé worship service. Taizé Worship is quiet, reflective, deeply peaceful and joyful, including silences, prayers, and readings. The singing throughout the service is basically repetitive prayers that are short and set to simple music.
The evening service was held in the large chapel of a convent for retired nuns. We had no idea what to expect. The chapel was a very special place, full of stained glass windows, wooden icons and beautiful paintings. The lights were dimmed and there were candles everywhere. There was a sign at the door letting everyone know that you must remain silent. As you walked in you could just feel the Spirit. We were given a bulletin and a candle, and we found a place to sit.
When I looked over the bulletin I noticed that I did not know any of the songs listed, and then I see that there was going to be 10 minutes of silence. 10 MINUTES! What?!? That is a long time for someone to sit in silence.
As the service progressed I found the music easy to learn and we sung each song over and over. I felt a peace fill me as I sang. When the chime sounded at the end of the silence, I could not believe that the 10 minutes had passed so quickly. The silence was followed by intercessory prayer. The prayers were interactive and encompassed praises, joys and concerns. Everything in the worship was lifted up to God. When worship ended I realized that I had never felt so fulfilled and full of the Spirit of Peace.
I invite you to attend a Taizé worship service. Experience it for yourselves. Many churches in our area have them.
We have a 30 minute service at First Presbyterian Church of Wheaton at 7pm this Friday, April 5th.
Join me for a little special time with God.
Blessings,