The Christmas concert was about to begin. The professional musicians were ready. All eyes were on the band director as he brought down his baton. Softly, flutes began weaving a magical introduction, capturing the audience's spirit. An instrumental duet formed with clarinets adding their voices. Then more wind instruments came in. Finally, brass and percussion entered and volume and tempo increased. Each section's contribution melded into a harmonious voice. The rehearsals had been worth it; the time and labor had not been in vain. Dedicated individual practice paid off as a glorious concert was birthed. "Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul" (Psalm 103:1-2a NIV).
Corporate worship is like that. Those gathered are caught up in a…