The Sensory and Slow Expression of Worship (Leviticus)

ram

Not too long ago, I read through the book of Leviticus. We don’t usually run to Leviticus as a place for spiritual nourishment. I suppose we could summarize it as a book of sacrifice and strange laws. At least they’re strange laws for us today.

We may recall the Day of Atonement, which is told of in ch.16. Yet there is still so much about linen undergarments, bulls, goats, blood and bathing in that chapter alone that we may still find it difficult to connect with.

Leviticus is demanding. It demands our full attention to the details to understand what’s going on. And it’s those demanding details flowing out of an ancient culture that seem to bog us down. Continue reading

Story-Shaped Worship & Liturgy

stained glass

I am currently teaching an online course entitled Worship Leadership. The course explores the church’s worship setting beyond just the songs of worship. One of the optional texts is Robbie Castleman’s Story-Shaped Worship: Following Patterns from the Bible and History.

I wanted to posted up what I believe are some important thoughts of hers regarding liturgy – especially in light of the church currently walking through the season of Lent.

Here are her words: Continue reading

Evangelicalism’s World of Worship

worship

I work at a modern music and ministry college – Visible Music College. We’re focused on training musicians, producers and managers in their musical field and faithful character to effectively impact the church and music industry. Because of this setting, I’m constantly thinking about worship, especially through the avenue of music within the collective church setting (yes, I’m happy that worship is bigger than music). Continue reading

A Lamb Shows Up

lamb

Across Revelation 4 and 5, we are given a most unique picture of the throne of God and its surroundings. The imagery is exquisite in description and it’s all connected back to how the prophets of old had described it – particularly Ezekiel (see Ezekiel 1). However, the interesting thing to note in John’s vision in Revelation is that, in chapter 5, we are now told that there is a Lamb. The scenery has changed just a bit. Continue reading