Walking to the train early on Sunday morning I’m filled with dread about the work I’m supposed to do to lead worship. I don’t feel prepared, mentally or spiritually. Sunday morning breaks after a Saturday filled with family commitments that offered no time for quiet contemplation of my Lord’s Day responsibilities. They are prepared, waiting for me in my office. But my head’s not there, and the train is arriving.

I don’t start to feel prepared until the first words of the Call to Worship are out of my mouth. Then the occasion takes over and a force more reliable than my diligence moves through the space. I remember again, once the rhythm of worship is moving, how little of what happens here depends upon the leaders’ mental or emotional state.