Song Story: Zion's Praise
by Alarice
As a songwriter, one of the first things I consider before pen hits paper is the revelation or vision that is burning in my spirit that needs to be communicated. Zion's Praise began with a vision of an entire people; a Holy Nation & multitude standing in front of the King, in awe of a beautiful and mighty God. More than just the vision, the Lord allowed me to access what His people were feeling, as well as what He as our mighty beautiful King was feeling. The people, amazement and wonder; the King, utter pure Love for us. I was so moved by this vision that I asked the Lord what title would encapsulate this. The phrase "Zion's Praise" came to me.
For the Lord has desired Zion, he has desired it for his dwelling, saying "This is my resting place forever & ever; here I will sit enthroned, for I have desired it"
(Psalm 132:13)
Zion represents God's chosen people (1 Peter 2:9), a heavenly city & nation as God's treasured possession. It is the praise & worship that arises from the City of God (Zion), that the Lord is invited in all His majesty and wonder to rest upon His people (Psalm 22:3). It is Heaven on Earth. The chorus goes on to say:
O Lord my God Holy one of Israel Crowned with Zion's Praises You have won the gaze & the affection of your people Forever...
As I was contemplating the usage of the word 'crowned', I had an image of a young girl putting on a crown made of twine & flowers on her father's brow, with the father delighting in her gift as little as it was. In the same way, I believe the Lord delights in the offerings of praise from His children.
In capturing the awe & wonder of what the people were feeling towards their King, I asked a friend of mine, one of my favorite songwriters & worship leaders Josh Yeoh, to help me with the last line. He reminded me of the word 'gaze' from Psalm 27:4.
"One thing I ask from the LORD, this only do I seek: that I may dwell in the house of the LORD all the days of my life, to gaze on the beauty of the LORD and to seek him in his temple"
I love that! A gaze alludes to being completely enamored & lost in beholding something so beautiful. Let us set our gaze & our affection on He who is worthy of all praise! My prayer is that this song will set your spirit on fire to create a culture of worship within your community for He is deserving of the highest praise & honour. Let it be our mission for us as His church to give God a throne that is worthy for Him to rest & reign.
You can watch the live music video here, & purchase/stream the entire EP on most major online music stores like Spotify, iTunes & Apple Music.
Love, Alarice