A word on worship

During a weekend in November, our class went to the mountains in eastern Oregon. We had a relaxing weekend away from homework, long classes and the daily routine. At one point in the day we went to a large field, with a guitar, hand drum and some flags. We had a time of worship. It was very cold outside, but it was a beautiful expression of our love for God. When looking at the picture above, I began to think about what worship looks like. Everyone worships someone or something. To worship is "to regard with extravagant respect, honor, or devotion" (Webster's Dictionary). I believe there are many expressions of worship.

One such expression I experienced was during the free clinic held at the Boise Vineyard. The mission medic students rotate shadowing the medical provider at the clinic on Wednesdays and Saturdays. The clients are people who don't have insurance, many are without jobs, and most are very poor. One of the clients who came into the office was a middle aged man who hadn't shaved in a while, had a not-so-pleasant body odor and had a nerve problem that put him in the emergency room three times in one week. The physician volunteer happened to specialize in neurology. In order to do certain tests, the client had to take off his shoes. The client's socks were wet with sweat and probably not so pleasant smelling either. Then, without flinching the volunteer bent down and began palpating his foot, searching for possible nerve damage. At that moment, I saw an act of worship to God. This physician volunteer did not have to touch those dirty feet without gloves and could have asked the man to wash his feet first, but he bent down and served this man. I believe that in that moment, the love of God was expressed.

Our daily life can be an expression of love and devotion to God. When we share with those in need (whether physical, emotional or spiritual), we are expressing our devotion to God in an honoring way. When we smile at someone on the street, we are expressing honor to God by loving others. When we are appreciative of the beauty around us, we are regarding the awesomeness of God, and thus, worshipping Him.