The Worship Network

By Tim Brown

To me, the essence of worship is gratitude. Webster's defines worship as "extravagant respect or admiration for, or devotion to, an object of esteem."

A few years ago, when my sons were one and three years old, we celebrated Mother's Day at our home in Florida. We all dressed up that morning and headed off to church as a family. In Sunday school every child was given a carnation to give to their mothers. My three year old was so excited about the flower he could hardly contain himself. Although the flower was for his mother, he wanted to hold it for her. All the way home he twirled the flower in the air with great joy. Halfway home he got a little too excited and accidentally broke the top of the flower. He was devastated. When we got home, dad came to the rescue and repaired the flower stem with duct tape.

How does this fit with "Worship Is..."? Every time I see this photo I am reminded of the overwhelming child-like joy of my three year old over a simple carnation for his mother. I distinctly remember the overwhelming feelings of gratitude and joy I had to God that day for providing me a glimpse into His heart through the joy of my son.