the lit ’m going to take a brave step and tell the world that I love the Lutheran liturgy in our hymnals. I know that this is a very controversial statement to make in public and could be viewed as crazy.
I
I never despised the liturgy. I was not one of those people who claimed the liturgy was boring, confusing, or out-dated. I bought into the belief that better, creative orders of worship were more desirable for attracting new church members. For this erroneous belief, I repent. Catechesis, maturity, and life experience have changed my opinion. The reasons most people cite for not liking the use of the liturgy are reasons based on feelings.This article isn’t a deep theological piece of writing and won’t address any historical church facts. I just want to share why I love the liturgy from a purely practical and emotional stance. I love the liturgy because: The liturgy is God’s Word. Prior to catechesis, I never knew that the liturgy quoted Scripture directly, most of which is put to music. Knowing the liturgy is knowing God’s Word. The liturgy brings order. I don’t like surprises.The liturgy has an order and purpose.The liturgy doesn’t change from week to week. I know what I am singing and saying, and I know when to kneel, stand, and sit.
H I G H E R T H I N G S __ 12
The liturgy is trustworthy. When using the hymnal’s liturgy, I can relax because it has passed theological review. When I attend a service with a newly created order of worship, I am in constant fear that what is in the worship folder may have theological errors, thus I do not feel comfortable in church. When one is busy having to read ahead and analyze what is printed, it is difficult to find the peace God wants to give. Not having a theological degree, I am never 100% sure that what I’m saying and hearing is God-pleasing. The liturgy brings unity across churches. When liturgies are used from synodically-approved hymnals, there is unity across churches. I can worship at a sister congregation across town and feel just as at home as
something
