“When Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Luke 1:41)

In my small time as Christian, I’ve noticed that believers have various perception of worship and it occasionally causes division. Some dress very formal and love traditional hymns, others Christians enjoy more comfortable settings and lean towards contemporary music, and there is a unique group that love both; I like to believe I fall there. In addition, there are different methods in how people express their worship to our heavenly father. For a long time, I used judge individuals who were a little more expressive then me in their worship experience.

In the womb, John the Baptist responds with a leap for joy in the presence of God, then His mom Elizabeth immediately praised God, as she was filled the Holy Spirit. She saw it an honor to be in the presence of the mother of the Messiah, moreover the Messiah Himself. Few passages later, Mary declares, ““My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has looked on the humble estate of his servant. For behold, from now on all generations will call me blessed; for he who is mighty has done great things for me, and holy is his name” (Luke 1:46-49).

We have an audience of one, and that’s one we need to Worship. On Sunday morning, believers in Hawaii will have sandals and laid back attire. In Africa, some will display elaborate praise dances. In the orthodox churches in America, you might see suits, ties, and hymns. Newer generation churches might have jeans and a more contemporary sound. Culture and scriptures play a huge part in the way believers worship their God. Hands waving, hands down, crying, laughter, it all can be your response to your encounter with Christ. And after our encounter; How then shall we live?

Written by Juan Mendez: Juan is a graduate of the Colony of Mercy and full-time staff member at America’s Keswick.

The Daily Bible Reading: Psalms 78-80| You can download our 2017 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Daily Quote: “God as we ought to worship Him. God is Spirit, so we must worship Him in spirit and truth, that is, by a humble and true adoration of spirit in the depth and centre of our souls.” – Brother Lawrence

This Week’s Verse to Memorize:

“Hear a just cause, O Lord, Attend to my cry; Give ear to my prayer which is not from deceitful lips.” Psalm 17:1