Praise

Isn't singing one of the greatest gifts God's given us? Of course, I wish I did it better (as do the people around me), but I love it none the less. It's thrilling to me to know that as much as I enjoy it, God is pleased with my "joyful noise" as well.

The church has such a great legacy of spiritual hymns and songs. And much of contemporary praise music is inspiring as well. I know there are battles fought over which is better and which we should use in our worship services. I have my own preferences about music, but pretty much that's just what they are...preferences.

I do have this comment to make. Sometimes during worship, we sing songs about our Christian journey. Sometimes we sing ballad like songs about longing for heaven. Sometimes we sing songs of encouragement to one another. All of these categories have a place in our time together.

But I think as we meet to worship the One Who is Worthy of Glory, Honor and Praise, some of what is proclaimed from our mouths has to be adoration for our King. How can we offer anything less?

Yes, someday I'll fly away. No, this world is not my home. Yes, the tie that binds is blessed. Yes, Jordan's banks are indeed stormy. And yes, the road I've traveled down is lonely and often times no one seems to care. But at the end of the day, I have to stand in awe. I have to proclaim Holy, Holy, Holy, because in the presence of the Merciful and Mighty even seraphim and cherubim bow down.

According the the Westminster Shorter Catechism, the primary purpose of man is to glorify God and enjoy Him forever. I believe this. My heart feels it. Are there not times when every fiber of your being just wants to sing hosannas to the King? We were made for this. Besides, if we fail, the very rocks will sing out.