Songs and singing hold a profound place in human experience, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. They help us articulate our innermost feelings, tell our stories, and, most importantly, connect with God. Through the act of singing, we are invited into a sacred space where our hearts and voices join in worship. We sing both vertically and horizontally on Sundays as we gather. 

Scripture is full of references to singing as a means of worship and connection with God. Zephaniah 3:17 beautifully portrays this divine interaction: "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing." This verse illustrates the profound reality that God Himself sings over His people, a testament to the importance and power of song in our spiritual lives.

While we looked at Colossians 3:16-17, the same recommendation is found in Ephesians 5:19 where Paul encourages believers to address "one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to the Lord with your heart." This act of singing not only nurtures personal communion with God but also strengthens the bonds within the community of faith.

If you are a reader and want to delve deeper, two books I have enjoyed are: 

Worship Matters: Leading Others to Encounter the Greatness of God by Bob Kauflin - Kauflin provides insights into the role of music in worship and how it can lead others to a deeper encounter with God.

Rhythms of Grace by Mike Cosper - This book offers a comprehensive look at how worship and singing can shape our spiritual rhythms and draw us closer to God.

Friendly reminder that we may read books we do not fully agree with everything in them. We read with discerning minds. Case in point, Mike Cosper does not agree with infant baptism. Either way there is good in reminding us of the many elements we do within a worship service.

Finally, as we gather for worship on Sunday mornings, it's essential to shift from a consumer mindset to one of active participation. This shift transforms our worship experience and our view of those around us. We also can choose to approach worship in the posture of preference and deference. This prioritizes communal worship over personal comfort. Allowing us to be gracious to each other as one community. In the spirit of Psalm 100: "Make a joyful noise to the Lord, all the earth! Serve the Lord with gladness! Come into his presence with singing!" we are encouraged to engage wholeheartedly.