Elements of WorshipNäide

held <-----> host

Enfolded worshipper, here at last in the deeper reaches of worship we find our true Object; we are held in love Himself. Carried along in sweet union, we are home.

We see this posture most with children who are confident of their parent's love: a quieted baby asleep in mamma’s arms, a toddler proudly carried atop daddy’s shoulders, a weary child draped against daddy’s side, or a hurt child running headlong to mommy. Similarly, this depth of worship brings us confidently into the arms of the One who loves us most, and who has the power to provide and sustain. Held in this position, God teaches us to commune directly with Him, spirit to Spirit. Selah.

Equally unfathomable, we simultaneously host Him. For the redeemed, Holy Spirit abides within our human shell and promises to remain. His light, life and love transform us from glory to glory, humility to humility. Hosting also puts God on touchable display in our sphere of influence as serving worship.

Being held and hosting are sustainable positions in worship. They run parallel to the command: “Abide in Me, and I in you” (John 15:4). Together they are the object and culmination of worship.

An Invitation

The realization that we are held by our Father comes from meditating on His Word and experiencing His love for ourselves. The Scripture says we are co-seated with Christ in heavenly places (Eph. 2:6). Come towards God as His beloved child. Then simply remain there sharing affection, Father to child, child to Father. This is the sweetest worship of all.

Yes, Holy Spirit resides in the believer. But in hosting we are also asking God to come in His weighty manifest presence. Ask Jesus to prepare you to host His presence in increasing measure, to come to His resting place in you (Ps. 132:8). Wait in expectation.