doxology

“Doxology is the only appropriate response.”  

I saw this phrase written in two different places this week, in reference to explaining God’s movements.  I found it a curious sentence - and when things catch my attention more than once I really try to pay attention.  Doxology as a response...  When I think of “doxology” I think only of the doxology we are taught to sing in church: “Praise God, from Whom all blessings flow, Praise Him, all creatures here below, Praise Him above, ye heavenly host, Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, Amen.”  It has been set to music by some famous artists, like this beautiful version below, but it’s largely the same tune and words. Doxology by David Crowder

But what did the authors mean by “doxology as the only appropriate response”?  Am I to break out in song with the words to that hymn as a response when thinking about God’s movements?  Perhaps!  But I looked up the word “doxology,” realizing it probably has a meaning deeper than the catchy and comforting little praise hymn we conclude our service with.  

Doxology is defined as a “liturgical formula of praise to God.”  And liturgical is a formulary in which public worship is conducted.  So doxology is, in essence, a formulated praise response during cooperate worship - or a group proclamation of “praise God!”  The word doxology comes from doxa which is “an appearance” or “a glory.”  So in doxology we are publicly praising God’s appearance and God’s glory.  I love this.  This can be in the formulated hymn we know my heart, but I think it can also be in any way that our hearts can conceive to praise God out loud.  And I love that.  I may start using that phrase when God does something sweet or amazing or I sense his movement - Doxology is the only appropriate response!