Beyond Proposition

Just finished Koenker's excellent chapter on *The Language of the Liturgy.* Early on in it he notes: "The language employed by the liturgy is directed to the heart, and it addresses the whole man. It is directed to the sources of his will and at the same time introduces his intellect to the Christian perspective on the framework of reality." (p. 84)

His summation of this chapter, though, is what I particularly appreciated:

"However, if modern man will without any prejudice, give the liturgy an opportunity regularly to speak to him, he will find its language communicating to him even today the old message of salvation. Bible and liturgy have actually led millions of people, whether kings or peasants, scientists or mentally defective, to the knowledge, power, and life of the living God. The mechanics of liturgical actions have lapsed into the background, and the worshipper has been led to an intimate relation with God Himself. Even the mein and the movements of the officiant have so supported his words as to lead one into the presence of God. This becomes no 'mystical' experience, but it is a confrontation that haunts, attracts, and binds one to God continually." (p. 92)

How utterly true! I think the Church's liturgy is how she issues the invitation: "O taste and see that the Lord is good! Blessed are all who take refuge in Him."