Vorgrimler defines within his writing two definitions of the word sacrament. The first he defines by Hugh of St. Victor (d. 1141), "as a bodily or material element that is used in an external, sensible manner and, through a certain similarity, makes present an invisible and spiritual grace, indicates that grace because of its institution (by Jesus Christ) and contains what is salvafic (for human beings)." A second definition is stated by the bishop of Parish, Peter Lombard (d. 1160), "as the sign of God's grace and the form of invisible grace, in such a way that it is both the image and the cause (causa) of that grace." I understand sacrament to be defined as a sign or an image. "Here, for the first time, it is said that the sacrament is the cause or reason for divine grace," (Vorgrimler, 46). Because of the sacraments or reasons of grace, liturgy then becomes reality or practice. Chupungco states that the word "liturgy" is service and is derived from the Greek words laos (people) and (ergon) work. "The recognition, understanding, and communication that happen in the symbolic event are unthinkable without language and its critical function," (Vorgrimler, 69). Therefore sacraments are not simply images or static signs, rather they are "relational events," they create relationships, they lead to an understanding of reality that is relational, dynamic and process-oriented. Because of sacrament, we have liturgy, and because of both of these, we have worship. We are then called to this act of worship, whether it be through sacrament or praise unto Him.
In response to Moe's question, the readings have offered new insights to my practice. When participating in the Eucharist next, (which will be at my Easter service back home) I will view this sacrament not only as an act of forgiveness of my sins and purity of my heart, but also an act of beautiful and intimate worship. It is within sacrament and liturgy that we can experience Christ's presence. For me, I look forward to Sunday morning "worship;" I long for it throughout the week. For this is where I feel His presence. This is my uninterrupted time to send praises to Him through uplifting and sweet songs united with a group of believers who share a forever bond in Christ. After the readings and Moe's challenge, for me personally, remembering that worship is more than just praising Him through my words in song, but yet it is also worship through the powerful act of sacrament and liturgy as well. Here a few of my pictures from my missions trip to the Philippines last year. One is reference to "Sacrament/Eucharist" and one in reference to "Liturgy/Service," both leaving us with images of acts of "worship," unto our beautiful Savior.
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| Serving His precious children with a hot meal- |
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