Living Light

Sunday May 13th - The Heart of Worship
This week's reflections are by Michael Cole

Christians around the world are worshipping the Lord today. Some are meeting in churches, chapels, cathedrals or schools. Others are meeting in secret because such worship is forbidden by the authorities. The worship will be both formal and informal; organs and guitars will be played, but the one common factor will be a heart for worship.

       

Michael is married to Stephanie. They have five children and eight grandchildren, (including triplets). Michael's ministry has taken him to Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester and then to Woodford Green in Essex. Involved with the South American Mission Society for many years, he is currently editor of Living Light, and contributes to Living Word.

       

Such a heart is revealed here in David's last psalm with it's great outpouring of worship. We don't know the precise background, but we can assume it is towards the end of his life. He has known the Lord as his Rock, and Fortress and Deliverer in times of great trouble and opposition. He has known the Lord's protection and provision, his forgiveness and his faithfulness.

Now David offers unreserved praise to 'my God the King'. He exalts and praises every day and for ever and ever the Name-the very nature and character of the Lord. David does not hold back from opening his heart fully to worship the Lord.

Our feelings and our circumstances change and these sometimes affect our worship, but the God we worship doesn't change. Thus David's example of faithful worship and praise, day after day, and his heart for worship, whatever the circumstances, is something that we should seek to faithfully follow.

Prayer - Mighty Lord, forgive me when I don't feel like worshipping You. Enable me to 'Praise my soul, the King of Heaven' and to praise You for your grace and favour, glorious in your faithfulness. Amen.

Read Michael's contributions for the rest of the week at Nationwide Christian Trust