As vaccines for the virus became more and more available and restrictions within Atlanta (and around the world) were lifting, I had the opportunity to go a Braves game with my cousin. I parked on the north side of the stadium and started walking toward “will call.” As I picked up my tickets and turned the corner into the Battery, a literal wave of emotion came over me: people. There were so many people together in one place. After a year of isolation, being reunited with all these strangers—cheering, laughing, seeing actual faces—was profoundly moving.
Similar to any live sporting or theatre event that one might attend, the same can be said for worship. A healthy theology of worship means that we understand the significance and privilege of gathering together as the people of God to worship Him.
A cursory glance of scripture reminds us:
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise.” (Psalm 100)
“When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place.” (Acts 2)
“When you assemble, each one has a psalm, has a teaching, has a revelation, has a tongue, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” (1 Corinthians 14)
“For where two or three are gathered in my name, I am there in their midst.” (Matthew 18)
Powerful actions of the Holy Spirit occur when the children of God worship together. As we sing, pray corporately, pass the peace, hear the proclamation, take communion, and respond to the grace lavished on us through the life, death, and resurrection of our Lord Christ, we do it together. We need Jesus first, and with Jesus we need each other.
As we make our plans for the fall, my prayer is that Peachtree Church will experience a revival through our worship. For those who are able to come to church, my challenge for you is to join us. For those who need to worship with us online, please be faithful in doing that. All of us are one body in Christ, the Church. We love you, we’ve missed you, and we’re pining to be with you in worship!