One of the things I miss the most about church before COVID is corporate worship. Even while wearing masks, our students are able to worship together at school, but being unable to participate in shared worship at church has saddened my soul. I am looking forward to attending church "normally" again. I say "normally" because while many churches have already opened, mine is still online. I am in awe of my pastoral staff’s thoughtful and intentional work of keeping our church connected during this time of virtual church. Our church is having homegroup watch parties. These gatherings have been a healing balm to my heart. Worshipping with even a small group of believers each week has been a blessing and reminder of how much I need the fellowship of the saints.
While worship can be anything we do to glorify our Lord and Savior, worship through song is unique because it was commanded to us. Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.”
There are three key things this verse points out:
As we go back to church, either with or without restrictions, it is important to prepare for worship. It is not merely the worship pastor’s job to “provide” a worship time. As believers and church members, we have a responsibility to show up with a heart ready for worship.
So what does it mean to show up with a heart ready for worship?
Well, worship is like a muscle that needs regular exercise. If we are not engaging in personal worship outside of church services, worship muscles could grow weak. We cannot neglect our worship in song simply because we are not in person, being led by our church worship team. We can engage in worship at home with our families, and it is easier than ever with today’s technology! Here are some ideas to incorporate worship into your home and daily life:
In conclusion, I know most of us are ready to be back in church, fully enjoying the live worship with our church families. I know I am! But while we wait, we must continue to lift our voices to the Lord in song.
Worship alone.
Worship with your family.
Worship with your friends.
Sing and make a joyful noise to the Lord! You will be strengthened and encouraged. Corporate worship will be all the sweeter because you have not grown faint in your personal worship throughout the week.
“Hallelujah! How good it is to sing to our God.” Psalm 147:1