The Place of Blessing

It is not often that I attend a worship service and hear myself saying over and over, "Wow!"  It happened this morning.  From the first notes of the pre-service music to the moment when the sound of music faded into an echo, my heart was stirred.  I sang louder than I should have and sometimes sang in a whisper when I probably should have kept silent,  Seldom does worship begin with "Victory in Jesus," only to get better, but it did today.  The choir anthem was powerful.  When it ended most people clapped.  I restrained myself from standing and shouting!   

When the theme of the sermon was announced using the language of the ball diamond, I expected trivial and an attempt at being entertaining.  Again, I was wrong as I heard a sermon that was inspired, passionately delivered, and heart engaging.  The church was one far enough away from home that I was among the visitors, but I left wondering how soon I could return.  Tomorrow would not be soon enough!   

There are times when powerful worship takes place without any planning and without much prayer.  I have had too many moments in the past when I have experienced such to be true.  I have also learned over the years that God expects us be to serious enough about worship and preaching to give careful and prayerful attention to the details. We owe Him our best in preparation.  Today was a day when the Holy Spirit brought great blessing to a gathering of His people and I am so grateful that I was in the pews when the blessing was happening.  I left looking forward to the next Sunday I can be in this place of blessing!