Paise and Worship

The beauty and power of music to transform us and to transform the environment of worship are often overlooked. While it may be hard to imagine a worship service without music, the songs that we sing and the music that we hear are often taken for granted. However, tremendous care, prayer and planning are all very important to provide a worship experience for those who gather in the sanctuary.
The devotional for the second Sunday of Lent introduces the writings of NT Wright. We are invited to consider the distinctions between praise and worship. Usually, the terms praise and worship occur together so often, the two are considered inseparable or synonymous. The occasion of gathering in the sanctuary allows each individual to encounter the presence of God. We are changed as a result of our encounter with God, and we are our connections to the community of faith are strengthened.

There are often familiar songs that we especially enjoy hearing in the sanctuary. The lyrics of those songs teach us about the faith that we proclaim. During this week of Lent spend some time thinking about the lyrics of the songs you most enjoy and come prepared to share some of the ways you’ve been encouraged and/or comforted by those songs. Also, consider some of the songs that you might not hear as often in the sanctuary, yet these songs are important for your personal encounters with God.
We are looking forward to learning, learning, and growing with you as we participate in the classes and worship services during this season of Lent. Bring a friend, share your favorite Christian songs and let us all look forward to being together again.

In Christ,
Jon McCoy