The first act of devotion is offering.
We are each on a spiritual path, and we each hope to gain the abundance of that path. But how can we gain spiritual gifts unless we are receptive? After all, nothing spiritual can occur if we are occupied with self-regard. Therefore, worship needs an act that will signify a willingness to put aside our self-centered occupations in favor of receptiveness to the divine. That is why all worship involves offering.
— Deng Ming-Dao, Everyday Tao