Praying before meals wasn’t new to me. But singing? That was a first.
I was at lunch once with a big group of pastors. We were loud and hungry, crowded around several tables at a local restaurant. When someone asked who would pray, a quick hush fell over the group. Then someone suggested we sing the Wesley grace. Without hesitation, these words filled the whole place:
“Be present at our table, Lord.
Be here and everywhere adored.
These favors bless and grant that we
may feast and fellowship with thee."
I mumbled along at first, glancing around to see who was listening. But by the final “Amen,” I was singing a little louder.
Psalm 138 says, “Before the gods I sing your praise.” Even kings, the psalmist says, will sing of the ways of the Lord. If they can lift their voices, surely I can, too. Even over the clatter of silverware, conversation and a lunch buffet.
At church, I remind people our singing is not about hitting the right notes. If it were, I'd be in trouble. It’s about following the Spirit. Worship isn’t an audition. It’s gratitude turned into sound. Then again, Charles Wesley once wrote:
"Meet and right it is to sing,
Glory to our God and King:
Meet in e'ery Time and Place,
To rehearse his solemn Praise."
Singing our praise together is a rehearsal. Not for a performance, mind you. An older definition of rehearsing is simply to repeat. To say again. So, when we sing, we are repeating the glory of God. We are reminding ourselves who God is and what God has done.
Every time and place. Sanctuaries. Cars. Kitchens. And yes, even restaurants. Because wherever God is good, God is worthy to be praised. 
Is there a way you can let singing praise become a part of your everyday rhythm? Is there a song you can sing by yourself or with others that directs your heart and attention to God?
If not, find one. If so, let's sing!
Stay blessed...john | 
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