In South Africa, the joy of the Lord is present in a heart full of worship. Oh, how the people praise the name, Yahweh. Whether it is on the streets in a township or the small voice of a child, God’s name is exalted and worshiped. What does it look like to have a heart full of worship? It is an overwhelming praise filled life directed to God through our words, actions, and thoughts.
The people I have met here exemplify this so well. have been blessed in conversations to see their worshipful hearts shine with joy. Gratitude, kindness, humility, meekness, confidence, dependence- are all traits I have seen in the people of these communities. So my next thought begs the question, “Where does their joy come from?” Their answer is simple- Jesus.
Diving into stories from people with different backgrounds they all would share how Jesus changed their life. This is when I began to see and admire their hearts of worship. Through trials, tribulations, blessings, and contentment the name of Jesus is praised throughout it all. I see their love for the Lord and their love for who they are because of Him. The Church here passionately exemplifies what a heart full of worship should look like. It is beautiful to see their actions, thoughts, and words praise God and not themselves. Oh how the Church here in South Africa has inspired me to strengthen my own heart of worship.
As I reflect on this, I compare how I viewed what a heart full of worship looked like to me a few weeks ago verses how I see it now- I can see the change. I now see worshiping the Lord is not just on Sunday mornings. I’ve learned that worshiping Yahweh is in every moment of life. Through the quiet of life and all the loud moments, praising God with all of my being is the priority. In my moments of self-doubt, in confidence, in dependence, in independence- I must remember God is the one on the throne. My heart, mind and soul belong to the Lord God Almighty. This is what these amazing relationships in South Africa have shown me. Oh what a praise it is to say- “I long to have a life that exemplifies a heart of worship.”
Karis Rauch
Class XIX Fellow