July 2, 2024

This last weekend, my sister and I went to a concert by one of our favorite bands. We got to belt out the lyrics with those around us who are there for the same reason. We did not know all that was going on in each person’s life or what they were leaving outside the arena, but that did not stop us from joining in and being a part of this experience. 

The music allowed us to be part of a larger community and brought a sense of belonging to those around us when we all knew the words (or just danced in the crowd). 

Music brings us all together. 

I feel that worship gives us a similar feel. It's not the same as a concert experience (nor do I think it should be), but for me, there’s a sense of a deeper community in our singing together each week. 

We have a connection as a community that comes through in our worship and what God gives us each week. Our singing comes together to form this beautiful melody and harmony that I do not think can be copied anywhere else because it is in that moment.

My favorite hymn, “Gather Us In,” by Marty Haugen (ELW 532), reminds me of this. Each person has a place in worship and is invited to join in the singing and be here, and how this community is not limited to the building we are in but sent out to the world to spread the love and word of God everywhere we go.

This is a place you can return to when you need somewhere to go. 

Your voice has a place in worship, even if you do not feel like it. You are a part of this community as we gather and live in this space. 

Let us be reminded and hold onto this as we move through this life and space. 

Amen.

Vicar Jennie

If you would like, you may listen to “Gather Us In” here.