Worship as Pastoral Care
Paul Anderson
True worship is directed first and foremost to the glory of God. But such worship, I've noticed, is also a means of pastoral care.
— Paul Andersen One Saturday I met with a deeply distressed single parent. Since she had no church family, I encouraged her to worship with us on Sunday, which she did with her daughter. When the two of them came to see me on Monday, the daughter, obviously pleased with the release her mother experienced in worship, said, "Mom cried through the whole service." Pastoral care of this woman began on Saturday and continued on Monday, but it wasn't complete without Sunday. I like to think I listen sensitively and counsel wisely. I know, however, I often overestimate my part and underestimate God's part in pastoral care. When it comes to having concerns borne, people need a pastor, but they ultimately need to meet with the Almighty. Like most congregations, we find people coming to us with deep and perplexing problems. We give them encouragement through personal counseling and support groups. But I also tell these people, "Worship with us. It will make a difference over the long haul." I've found that those who maintain regular worship heal faster. True worship is directed first and foremost to the glory of God. But such worship, I've noticed, is also a means of pastoral care. Worship Helps People Look Outside Themselves
I met for several weeks with a young man who didn't have serious psychological problems; he was just too focused on himself. He regularly turned conversations toward his concerns and would serve others only when it was convenient for him. Over a few months, however, his attachment to self diminished. Now he pays more attention to others, showing more concern for their interests and needs. ...
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