Let the worship Begin

 Read Psalm 134.

This is the last of the songs of ascents.  One can almost sense the worshiper getting closer to the Tabernacle; perhaps, it was in sight.  When they could see the Levites standing at their assigned posts, ready to serve the people, the travelers broke out in praise.

Traditional worship services begin with a "Call to Worship."  This brief psalm serves a similar purpose.

1. It is a call to praise the LORD.
Upward.  He is the object of our worship.  So many become enamored (or distracted) by the building, the style of music, or the people around them and are not engaged in true worship.  Worship is the bowing down in submission and thanksgiving to the Person of God Himself; nothing more, nothing less, and nothing else.

2. It is a call to praise the LORD together.
Inward.  Making public worship a priority is not an option for a believer.  We need to come together for teaching of God's Word, singing together, encouraging each other, and prayer.  To be a believer in Jesus is to be an active participant in a local church.  The New Testament does not know of any other kind of follower of Christ.
"...not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." (Hebrews 10:25)

3. It is a call to the LORD to bless their nation.
Outward.  The concern of our worship is making God famous.  We not only want the LORD's blessings upon our nation, but we want our nation to bless God!  One who knows the LORD wants others to come to know Him too.  Inspired and equipped, believers leave the occasion of public worship to serve God in the everyday places He has assigned them.