This past month sitting in my “recliner,” I enjoyed watching the College National Football Championship, taking it all in the comfort of my home. The great news was the Tigers won. My focus was primarily on the action on the field, but I really love the camera shots of the fans for either team. They are fanatically cheering and singing school fight songs, raising their arms in the air, pumping their fists and other odd gyrations when their team scores or has a great defensive stop. Fans were also raising banners in the air with catchy phrases and even an occasional wave in unison could be seen in the stadium. The cheering creates this excitement that makes you want to be there. I must admit I get caught up in the exhilaration and am filled with joy.

There is a word that I have seen in my readings over the past few months that keeps resonating with me. The word is “Exultation.” This means a triumphant jubilation or rejoicing action. I am most familiar with the word “exaltation,” which means to glorify or elevate. The two words go hand in hand in a church worship service. We exult (rejoice) and exalt (glorify) in Christ. Exultation varies from the type of church worship style we prefer. Exultation really begins to happen as we congregate together. Worship was never meant to be a solitary practice. Jesus shares with us this reminder in Matthew 18:20; “For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” We congregate together to let our voices in unison be heard by God.

¹⁵ Happy are the people who know the festal shout, who walk, O Lord, in the light of your countenance; ¹⁶ they exult in your name all day long, and extol your righteousness, ¹⁷ For you are the glory of their strength; by your favor our horn is exalted. Psalm 89:15-17

Worship can become this unique experience that has no match even if you had 50-yard line tickets for the big game. We may remember and relish the memories of that football game, but they will soon fade away. The worship experience is more than just a game, it is a lasting vital lifeline to our Father. Lives transformed, lives healed, and lives uplifted in the name of Jesus. As we worship together, we catch the Holy Spirit that envelopes us in unison with our brothers and sisters in Christ. One special AUMC fan shared that worship is a great way to end the week and start the week all on the same day. A friend shared with me that they feel empty or out of balance for the week when they don’t participate in worship. Another sister said, “I get to share this experience with dear friends who have become my family.” Finally, one special AUMCer shared that the importance of participating in worship is to be able to “fill my cup” for the week.

Sunday worship service is a special time we gather as the people of God by lifting Him up and rejoicing in Him. No matter the styles of worship, the premise is the same. The pastor and our music leaders are there to direct and lead us much like the pep squad/band/cheer teams. We, the church, are the “fans” being called to participate through our presence, prayers and singing; lifting each other’s spirits. The angels up high and all the saints and witnesses in the clouds join with us in exultation and exaltation each Sunday. Now imagine God sitting back in his “recliner” throne just taking it all in. Keep in mind this Sunday morning that it’s not all ABOUT YOU, but it is FOR YOU.

Next time you are in worship service, lift your voices a little bit higher and raise your banner a little bit higher for the risen Christ. It just might be a thought-provoking word, a heartfelt song, a warm hug or a smile of gratitude from another that “fills your cup” with joy this week.  See you Sunday!

Peace,

Kenny Shortsleeve, Lay Leader
AUMC Family since 1988