Abstract
A. W. Tozer once said, ‘Worship is humanity’s full reason for existence’ (The Worship-Driven Life (2008), 47). Although Joyce Zimmerman does not reference Tozer, this sentiment is echoed throughout her book. In Worship with Gladness, Zimmerman examines Christian worship in North America across denominations/traditions, based on her observations made while working with the Calvin Institute of Christian Worship.
Each of the four chapters is multilayered and interspersed with a ‘reflective pause’ made up of open-ended sentences that encourage readers to articulate a response to Zimmerman’s discussion. Each sentence uses plural pronouns, reflecting Zimmerman’s emphasis on the importance of the community of faith. In doing so, she presents a book that invites readers to reflect on their personal and corporate understanding or practice of worship.
As she discusses the ‘who’ and ‘what’ of worship, Zimmerman concludes that there is no simple answer or definition that encapsulates every aspect. Instead, she opposes such attempts to restrict the meaning and expression of worship, arguing that many such restrictions have been the cause of ‘worship wars’ between denominations, traditions and individuals. Anyone who has been involved with leading worship within a church will be familiar with such tensions, particularly regarding music.
Drawing on her Catholic background, Zimmerman presents liturgical tradition in a very positive light. There is no denying the strength of the liturgy in the development of a well-rounded view of worship, although Zimmerman’s use of terminology, especially in the latter half of chapter 1, seems to place ‘worship’ and ‘liturgy’ in opposition. This is unfortunate in light of her earlier statement concerning liturgy as a ‘subcategory’ of worship. As the book progresses, it is clear that Zimmerman does not intend to contribute to a ‘worship war’ but rather invites honest reflection on the focus, meaning and practice of worship.
Zimmerman’s discussion of worship as a privilege challenges a consumerist self-centered approach. In contrast with the megachurch movement in North America and the emphasis on ‘seeker friendly’ services, this book is a refreshing and honest look at the big picture of worship beyond any one denomination or tradition. Regardless of your background this is a book that is worth reading slowly, taking the time to reflect and examine your own understanding of, and approach to, worship.