An Ancient Response
In busier seasons I often return to the Psalms for my scripture reading. I find that the insights flow more freely. Their ripe revelations are easier to digest when I don’t have much space in my mind.
I also relate to the intensity and range of emotions expressed throughout the Psalms. David’s genuine worship is both inspiring and comforting. I find fellowship in his drama and dialogue with the living God. The Psalms remind me that worship is an ancient response.
One of my favorites – Psalm 63 – feels like a celebration, call to action, and sacrifice all at once. That’s worship. The message version reads,
“God – you’re my God!
I can’t get enough of you!
I’ve worked up such hunger and thirst for God,
Traveling across dry and weary deserts.
So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open,
Drinking in your strength and glory.
In your generous love I am really living at last!
My lips brim praises like fountains.
I bless you every time I take a breath,
My arms wave like banners of praise to you.
…
Because you’ve always stood up for me,
I’m free to run and play.
I hold on to you for dear life, and you hold me steady as a post.”
Two main things I notice about David’s worship – 1) enjoyment of God 2) freedom.
So here I am in the place of worship, eyes open,
Drinking in your strength and glory.
In worship, David purely enjoys God’s presence. God’s strength and glory fill David’s hunger and thirst in a literal wilderness. I have experienced that same presence in worship. I get to commune with that same God today. In worship I join the song of millions before me who experienced the strength and glory of God meeting all their needs.
I bless you every time I take a breath,
My arms wave like banners of praise to you.
At this moment, worship was as easy as breathing for David. He physically could not keep his hands by his side. I love that the worship in the Bible is often more wild and free than what I see today. In reading about ancient worship, I actually feel a pull to be more undignified. I feel full permission to take up space and be myself. David did not care what he looked like. He did not wait for a certain song. In fact, it doesn’t seem like music was present at all. This worship was not a weekly routine. It was not planned or a performance. It was a pure response.
I get to respond in the same way today. And David and I will get to worship together one day. Praise God, worship is not only an ancient response but an eternal one.
I love you, Lord.
Song recommendation: As Long As I Live (Psalm 63) by The Sing Team
https://open.spotify.com/track/0u2x84aQRg3r12frDoMMDk?si=s1YakDDmQuKCuk94pgn3FQ
