Sunday, February 12, 2012

Preparation: It’s a concept that when followed will enhance every activity. In every situation from a barbeque to a war, preparation is not only good, but success is almost always dependant on it. As we look at our men and women in the battle fields right now, what if they had not prepared for the conditions that they would face? What if the infantry only brought enough supplies for a week? When I do a barbecue I take time to make sure that I have everything I need. All of the utensils, condiments, food, paper towels, foil, water spray can, an apron, extra fuel, etc. are all in place before the cooking begins. Not being prepared at a cookout can mean having to drive far to get more propane; not being prepared for war can mean death. In both cases preparation is essential.


Preparation is also necessary in worship. Many times we don’t think about this because in many situations worship is looked at as something that we come to and that is brought to us. It is quite the opposite however; worship is something that we bring, something that we are responsible for and something that we must prepare for. Paul even reminds us that we need to be prepared to take the Lord ’s Supper, an act of worship, in a way that is worthy before we come. (1 Cor. 11:28)

How do we prepare for worship? Since worship is a lifestyle it is a daily occupation. As we walk with the Lord during the week and talk with Him giving Him praise, adoration and thanksgiving our hearts are being prepared. As we meet with other believers to pray, be encouraged and bring encouragement, we become more prepared. As we spend time in God’s Word and make it’s truths a part of our daily walk we deepen our preparation. As we think and meditate on His goodness, faithfulness, mercy, love, grace and provision and take time to acknowledge our gratitude to Him for those things, we add to our preparation. All of those elements are the “utensils” of worship our “torches” and then when we meet together in our corporate gatherings we, having prepared all week long, come together and celebrate at the “worship party” the “bond-fire” of praise!

Are you prepared today? Do you have your tools, your torches lit ready to enter in? It makes a world of difference in how you’ll walk away from our gathering today. And for every gathering here you prepare for it adds to your lifestyle of worship which is preparation for our eternal worship gathering! So get your apron of praise on and let’s cook!

Pastor MJ

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