Sunday is a very busy day for me. I arrive at the church at a very early hour and prepare myself for worship with prayer and a list of tasks. It’s a quiet time with no phones and no interruptions.
Whenever I tell people how early I arrive, I’m usually met with a look of incredulity. They can’t imagine that hour. Most wonder how I do it.
It isn’t easy. Once my alarm goes off, my brain begins to play a game. It makes every excuse . . .
You don’t need to be up . . .
Just wait another minute or two . .
You can do those things later in the day, so sleep in . . .
But, getting up early is important for my Sunday preparation. I spend time praying. I spend time reviewing the morning. I go over the music for the day. I reread the scripture. I plan my transition words. Yes, I have tasks to be accomplished but it is the time alone that is important to me, as a leader.
Numerous verses tell of Jesus taking time to be alone and pray. He took time to be alone with Hod after big events and before big decisions. Why shouldn’t I?
This morning, my Sunday became about me . . . briefly. I got up and went for a walk in the quiet of the morning. I noticed after my early-morning walk last Sunday, I had more clarity in thought, energy was consistent throughout the day. This week, I awoke, rose, walked and used the time to better organize my day. At the end of it, as I write this, I see the benefits of quiet time reflecting and paying.
Today, what is your quiet time? How do take the time and prepare to be with God? Is your best day worshipping God really about how you prepare for the encounter?
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