Time of Preparation
Begin by taking inventory of your surroundings. Are things in your vicinity conducive to a time of personal worship? Are there any changes or adjustments (turning off tech, making yourself comfortable) you need to make before you begin?
When you are ready, take some time to sit in silence and prepare your heart for worship. Ask God to clear away any distractions that might keep you from being truly present in this moment.
Assurance
In this third movement, we receive the good news of the gospel: we are forgiven.
“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us.
And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers and sisters.”
—1 John 3:16 (NIV)
Today’s song reminding us of God’s love and mercy is one that was writing spontaneously during a time of worship. That’s what grace does—it moves us to unexpected expressions of awe and gratitude.
As someone who is a fan of liturgy, I have no issues with prepared statements of assurance. I use them all the time in worship. But sometimes we need to just sit back and let the reality of grace wash over us, and see where it takes us.
Where is it taking you today?
SONG OF ASSURANCE: Your Love is Extravagant (lyrics here)