getting ready

What do you do to prepare for worship? In ancient Israel when the Jews were going to Jerusalem for a festival, we get a glimpse of what was on David’s mind from the “Songs of Ascent,” Psalms 120-134. These are called “Songs of Ascent” because no matter where you are coming from, you are always going “up” to Jerusalem. These songs were probably sung by travelers (pilgrims) coming to worship.

It wouldn’t be such a strange idea to mimic our ancient ancestors and recite a few of these Psalms as we are preparing. A personal favorite of mine is 121, but all of them get you pumped up.

If you want to literally get pumped up why not get up a little earlier and exercise before worship? Nothing like getting the heart pumping to get the Spirit jumping. Or something to that effect.

Some music might do the trick, as well. Blasting a bit of Third Day or if you want to keep with the Songs of Ascent theme, Matisyahu, is sure to get you going. Anything but, A Day in The Life, “Woke up, got out of bed, dragged a comb across my head.”