Worship as life

Worship Walk: Where Worship And Life Intersect Gareth J. Goossen. Make Us Holy Publishing, 2004. 252 pages.

Having been involved in travelling and church-based worship ministry for many years, I have always been interested in new books, magazine articles and seminars on the topic. These have ranged from fluffy “feel good” explanations, to dry cognitive theological works that leave the reader gasping for something they can understand. What a treat, then, to be sent a book like Worship Walk to review.

As founder and executive director of Make Us Holy Ministries, and as a former worship pastor, Goossen brings a wealth of experience and insight to the subject. It begs, not only to be read, but practiced. In Part 1, he establishes a definition of worship that wonderfully transcends the current arguments over styles of worship, by skillfully and humbly teaching how worship is much more than music.

But the real treat begins in Part 2, as he shows how to turn every aspect of life and living into acts (or better, one grand act) of worship. Each chapter is like a devotional with practical applications for learning how to develop a lifestyle of worshipping God. It is both challenging and encouraging. Goossen treats potentially controversial subjects (like spiritual gifts and forms of expression of worship) with a maturity and sensitivity that will neither alienate nor favour one stream or denomination over another.

Of all the books I’ve read by more well-known personalities in worship ministry, none have been as accessible and practical as this one. I heartily recommend it for leaders and congregants alike. If you see it on a bookshop shelf, don’t just mutter “oh yeah, yet another book on worship by someone hoping to cash in on the growing worship ‘industry’.” This one is worth reading, digesting and applying.

Johnny Markin is pastor of worship and the arts at Northview Community Church, Abbotsford. Gareth Goossen is a member of The Dwelling Place, Kitchener, Ont.