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A r t i c l e s o n M i n i s t r y  RSS
By Branon Dempsey
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| Can A Worship Leader Age Out?
Just today, a friend and member of our WTT Facebook Page wrote in a response to an article (find 2 articles below this one "Plant + Water = Growth") I posted more than a year ago. As I began to respond, I realized that we were hitting on some nerve ending topics. I will share with you as I have shared with my friend regarding the question: can a worship leader ever age out? Here is the dialouge unedited:
Pastor Greg:
'You ask the question, "Can one ever age out in leading worship?", but you don't venture into, "How can you tell if it's time to move into another form of ministry because you have aged out in leading worship?" In other words, what would you encourage worship leaders to look for in themselves to suggest that it is time to move on?
I have seen very effective (IMO) worship leaders in their 50's and 60's, and less than effective 30 somethings in the same role. What should we be looking for?'
Branon Dempsey:
Here’s my take: In my opinion, this answer can be derived by four indicators: are you still fulfilling the mission and vision of your ministry? Is your ministry meeting the needs and ages of others? Is your style of music still relevant to those you are trying to reach as a church? Are you able to keep up with whatever trends (leadership, technology, music, etc) that directly apply to the age and your local area of ministry? If you answer "no" two times out of the four questions + if you can’t learn some new tricks, it may be time to pass the baton to the next emerging leader.
What/how do you encourage other worship leaders to look into themselves - to suggest it’s time to move on? Well, only they can answer that. If there not asking the question, most likely they won’t make any suggestion for themselves. If this is the scenario, and the pastor sees the need for change, the two need to meet and have a heart-to-heart. You can’t expect people to get-it when there is no admittance to the issue.
Like you, I have seen many great WL’s in their late years and still very active and effective in their ministry. I’ve also witness those who are struggling and are in need of a treadmill and good vitamins. In addition, it is difficult for younger generations to develop a seasoned perspective and style of ministry when they are still starting out. If a thirty-something is in an mundane cycle of no-growth, or in a profound state of unconsciousness (we call this a coma), this is a problem too.
What do you look for? Your mission/vision target as a church. Are you meeting it with the age, skill-set, delivery and facilitation of leadership to accomplish ministry. Or is your worship ministry at a snail’s pace or no pace at all? Ok, snail's pace. Yes, time to have the heart to heart. But, don’t throw out the grandpa with the bath water. Eeeew. Ok, in my ministry experience, I have transitioned older guys in other areas of ministry. There is no doubt. Heart to heart talks are tough, especially when it involves change and being struck with the reality that you are not getting any younger.
Here’s what I have done. Encourage and relate with them to discover other areas of ministry that are not being met in the church. That’s right. The other stuff that is not so glamorous nor highlighted at ministry conferences. Here are a few, i'm sure there are more creative thoughts to this list that I am leaving out: mentoring younger worship leaders and team members, caring for the spiritually wounded, facilitating internships, private lessons, teaching group music/master classes, additional festive or specialty bands, senior music ministry, as well as providing music at nursing homes. I’m really serious here. My best friend goes to nursing homes and plays old standards and Sinatra tunes. You have to look at ministry on the other side. It will amaze you to visualize all the possibilities. Ministry is not 2 dimensional. Most people only see ministry from a stage point of view. Ministry is 360, not 1 degree. It’s all about being creative, passionate and caring for your ministry.
I do not believe that anyone is to be tossed aside. Paul reminds us that we are one Body and our eye can’t say to the hand: I have no need of you. Care is timeless, yet as we facilitate our leaders to match the needs of the followers, we are able to care more effectively. As this happens, we find that our ministries cover more than just an age group target, but rather, a healthy scope of multi-generations. Ministry is about people, not about numbers.
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| Handling Criticism
It's a reality. Everyone has an opinion. Everyone has their own set of expectations (some or most can never be met). Everyone has their own way of doing things. We wave the "thou-shalt-not" statements and laundry list preferences that fly like flags on the fourth of July. Funny how the word "change" is the most feared word in the Church, yet too often, we like to change our minds and comment on anything we think at anytime we like. It's been said before, when you put a group of imperfect people into one room, you are going to have a wide variety of personalities and opinions. As a worship leader, musician, singer or pastor, how do you handle the wide variety of expressed opinions? Importantly, how do you handle those opinions when they come in the form of criticisms?
You've heard it before: "Why do we need drums in church anyway?" "Can't we sing more hymns?" "When is this person going to stop talking?" "Why is she in the choir?" "Why did you choose a song that I don't like?" "Pastor, you did not mention MY name in your sermon."
I remember an old story of a worship leader/pianist in our church. She was a mother of three sons in her late thirties. Marvelously gifted at the piano, she served with all her heart in the music ministry. In being a stay-at-home mom, she devoted a large portion of her free time to the church. The music was planned weekly with the pastor. Hours were spent searching through hymnals and choruses just to find the right music-message. Rehearsals were very well-organized, timely and directed. All the sheet music was fresh, neat and nicely arranged. This worship leader cared deeply about her praise team singers and the few musicians that were so devoted in coming to weekly rehearsals. She spent much time and energy in holding extra rehearsals and always had time left for anyone who needed additional help. Her selfless commitment to serving the Lord in music was just that - a service to the Lord and not to herself.
She loved the music. She also loved the affirmation of others and always wanted to do a good job. However, there were times that she became overly concerned of how others thought of her. Sometimes her worry of other people's opinions, hindered her decision making. The worship leader enjoyed closing the service with a well-known and over-sung hymn. She loved this song. The piano was her choice instrument, yet she would sing this song to the top of her lungs.
It was another ordinary Sunday service. As usual, this worship leader arrived early and arranged the music stands, equipment and material on the small stage in a neat fashion. The praise team and musicians also came early and began running through the music. Later that morning, the worship service began. The music was vibrant and moving. Hearts were stirred as people sang loudly. The sermon was fantastic. The congregation was deeply engaged with God as smiles lit up the room. At the close of the service, the worship leader broke into her favorite parting song. People clapped, cheered and were well on their way to the pot-luck meal next door. But not everyone in the room was as jubilant. As people left, a man stayed behind to speak to the worship leader. Some church volunteers were hanging around straitening odds and ends after the service. The man drew near with a sneer in his eyes. The worship leader could see a rigidness in his demeanor as he shuffled his feet towards her. This was not going to be a Hallmark Card moment.
The man reached out his arm and pointed his boney finger in the face of the worship leader. Very coldly he demanded, "why do you always play that same song every week?! I can't stand the way you play and sing that song! Who do you think you are anyway? No worship leader you are. Don't you know that no one enjoys that song the way you do?"
I will never forget the shocked long face of this now teary eyed and fragile woman. She was so hurt and angry that she could not speak. She quietly sniffled and packed her things as she hurried off to the door. There was a sunken feeling in the room. Bystanders stared-down the perpetrator as he made his exit. Afterwards, the worship leader wanted to renounce her position and to leave the church.
Has this ever happened to you or someone you know? There is no doubt that this situation was utterly intolerable and damaging. This worship leader spent long volunteered hours and such godly dedication and was shot down by such an inappropriate negative behavior.
Sad to say, but these situations happen more often than what we like to believe. Whether the person in this scenario was a worship leader, musician, singer or pastor, the hurt and insult to injury is all the same.
Now there are two sides of this story. If you were the worship leader, how would you respond? Could there have been a better outcome? If you were the man, how would you handle your thoughts and opinions? What steps could have been taken to prevent a negative outcome from this situation? Truth is, we experience conflict everywhere. Knowing how to process and handle disputes will make a positive difference in your interactions with people and in your ministry.
For the man, it was apparent that he was bothered. He must have been quite fried enough to wait for everyone to leave as he hurled insults at the worship leader. He felt very strongly in his viewpoints. He was quite articulate in how he conveyed his emotions. From my observation, this man may have already been upset by the time he rolled into the parking lot. A good friend in ministry once said to me, "usually 90% of all negative comments made have nothing to do with the recipient." I believe this to be true.
Look at the scenario again. Was this worship leader trying to upset the gentleman by playing the song? Did she have an intention to ruin the service for this man? Here is the bigger point, was the service solely designed for this man anyway? Think about that for a moment in comparison of your experience.
This man went through great lengths for an attack, yet this worship leader was probably not the source of his aggression. She was not at any fault. Unfortunately, the worship leader was caught in a cross-fire. Regardless, he unloaded without any restraint. The attempt on his part publicly humiliated her for the exchange to elevate himself.
Let's look at the worship leader's perspective. She invested much time in her volunteer work at the church. It is clear that she cherished her service to the ministry. The people in the worship service were important to her. She valued what they thought about her as she did her best to serve. Deep down, this worship leader feared the rejection of people, it was her worst thought. She was completely caught off-guard and was without any defense. How would you respond in this situation?
The reality: there is always going to be someone in life (and in the church) that will tell you how to do your job or will tell you how much better they can do it. Why? We still live in a fallen world. Here's the kicker, God does not want us to be doormats, rather, he desires us to handle circumstances with the mind of Christ and with the strength of His Spirit. Jesus said himself we are to be peace makers - not keepers and not bashers.
What could have helped the worship leader and the elderly man? Boundaries and respect comes to mind. It works both ways. As taught in their book "Boundaries," by Townsend and Cloud. Your personal boundaries are to be upheld. Like a fence around a house, your boundaries say where others stop and where you begin. Only you are responsible for allowing what others put in your yard. You have the say-so power of what people can do or what they can't do. Think about the boundaries of God. He divides truth from falsehood, separates righteousness from sin and distinguishes mercy from condemnation. God presents His boundaries to us as Christians in order to keep us safe as he knows what's best. In the same way, we also our to keep ourselves from what is harmful and unhealthy.
In the perspective of the elderly man, he made a choice to air his grievances, rather than to accept that his personal tastes were different from the worship leader's. It's ok to have an opinion, but it's not ok to personally attack the individual. In view of the worship leader, she dwelled on the issue and wanted to renounce her position and to leave the church. Rightly so, she has every reason to be hurt and frustrated - her emotions are validated. However, leaving does not solve anything, especially when the two opposing forces cannot reconcile. Plus, if she were to go to another church, she'll bring all this baggage with her. This kind of parting is not good for anyone.
So how do you handle criticism? It comes in a variety of responses. And this is the main point - you respond, not react. Reacting would be to flee or fight in the situation. Responding would be to seek to understand and to objectively and mutually arrive at a solution. Even if the two parties cannot agree, you can still agree to disagree. There is nothing wrong in disagreeing with a person. We're all different. Our behavior in how we disagree is the essence of character.
Let's draw two scenarios. The first instance would be that the gentleman was still angry, but the worship leader had a calm response and vice versa. When the worship leader was faced with the opposition, there was a moment to listen and a moment to ask questions. Here's what I mean: the man approaches her and hurls the insults. Instead of the woman reacting, she takes time to listen without personalizing. Yes, this is a very difficult, but it's worthy for a positive outcome. Keep listening. The worship leader allows the gentleman to "vent" his frustrations. When finished, she validates his points. Don't get me wrong, she is not agreeing with him, she is hearing him. In this exchange, the worship leader is showing him kind attention. She responds in statements like: "I did not know you were so upset, this is concerning. Thank you for expressing how you feel. I understand if this were not important to you, you would have not shared it with me. How can I help you?"
Ok, this would most likely throw the guy for a big loop. If you were him, how would you respond? Because she listened and did not personalize the event, she was patient and was calm. This automatically gave the gentleman the opportunity to listen to himself and possibly would back pedal down to a calmer spirit. Read Proverbs 15.1 Especially when she said the phrase: how can I help you?" He may even withdraw his assertions.
Let's say the man went on in his anger to push her buttons. She still has the opportunity to be consistent. This anger-management issue would soon pass, eventually, he will either leave or finally calm down. All the while, the worship leader is loving him as Christ. At the same time, she keeps herself from committing anything regrettable. It's not killing him with kindness so much, because there is a bigger picture involved. It's about demonstrating a ministry of reconciliation. If the anger continues, she has every right to do two things: refer him on to the Pastor and to agree to disagree. Continuing a battle is not pretty for anyone, eventually everyone gets tired and wounded. Most of the time, you really do have to pick your battles. You will then find, that most are not worth the energy and consequence.
In this alternative scenario, the gentleman calmly approaches the worship leader with a comment. He says "you know, I really like the song '_______,' could we sing this sometime?" At this point, the worship leader has the power to respond positively or negatively.
Just remember, when facing conflict, they can't kill ya and they can't eat ya. Stay cool, listen and be patient. Give your attention to the other person. Even if you know they're wrong, don't get on their level. The situation is not about who's right or wrong. Again, we all do things differently. Even as I write this article, there maybe someone who can do a better job. Does it worry me? Only if I let it.
In the big picture of things, through the Lord, you will be surprised to decipher what is eternally significant and what is not. I don't mean viewpoints. I mean people are eternally significant. Love them. Be with them as Christ was to all who opposed His ministry. This is what Jesus meant when he said, "Bless those who curse you." You are being His representative and God's child - Luke 6.28.
Look through the Gospels and see how Jesus responded. In most every situation, he cared more spiritually about the person than what they demanded. He listened and he sought to understand. I believe if we take more time to listen, accept the differences of others and seek reconcilable relationships we are in alignment of loving our neighbor as ourselves. Truth is, we learn more about ourselves in our interactions with people. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we determine or weaknesses and strengths and render them to God. We go, grow and show.
Again, everyone will do their job or task differently from the next person. Just because a person performs a task differently from you, it does not make them wrong. As Paul stresses in 1 Corinthians 12.24, that we are members of each other, each of us posses a unique skill-set from God. Some are weaker, some are stronger, but in the end, we are still one Body and serve in a variety of ways.
My wife and I do things differently all the time. How silly would it be for me to tell her: "I don't like the way you make the bed," or "I don't like the way you brush your teeth." Really? What difference does it make? It's her bed, it's her teeth. She's free to do as she pleases, unless she's harming others in the process. Yet we hear these comments in church: "Why must you do that song?" "If I were you, I would…" Ok here is where the responsibility meets the road. As the Church, each of us are called as members of the Body to serve the Lord through ministry.
Serving the Lord is not pointing out planks in the eyes of others. Serving the Lord is finding your responsibility and contributing to the work of the Holy Spirit as we build up the Church. The worship service itself is just that - a service of worship unto the Lord. The service is not to ourselves. We as the Church are to be a ministry of reconciliation and peace.
Ephesians 4.11-12 says: "It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."
Nowhere does the Bible say the opposite: He gave some to be finger pointers, gossipers and busy bodies to discourage and hinder God's people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be torn down.
When we sow this un-Scriptural concept, we reap a division and fracture the local church.
As we are new in Christ, we have a calling to live out His love in the places we serve. We also live in a watching world. Our witness to this world says what we believe about loving others and what we believe about loving God. May we walk in the message of His mercy as our responses are seasoned with salt and grace.
"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting men's sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation." - 2 Corinthians 5:17-19
|  | Setting The Standard
It's
a common challenge. How high do you raise the bar? What is the bar? How
do you introduce it? Most worship leaders I know and team members alike
are faced with these and similar situations. We all have a wide variety
of skills, experience levels and personalities. Matching the person to
the right place and goal is an art within itself. Multiply this by the
number of people in your team and your head will spin.
Does
this scare you? Will this scare others? These are two questions I often
ask myself in making difficult decisions. Here's why. If it scares me,
I'm either not ready to commit, need more time to work on a particular
area or I'm just plain paralyzed by over-committing. Of coarse all
three can bleed into one. Sorry for the pun. If I think it will scare
others, it may mean that my strategy is off kilter or too far fetched.
Another possibility is that I may need to put more faith in my team.
Having an element of fear is a good thing because it keeps us
accountable. Generally speaking, people work well with boundaries. When
they don't work well it could be that they are too enforced. Instilling
fear into people in order to lead is counterproductive and damaging. If
the boundaries are not encouraged enough, your expectations will stay
in the waiting room.
Standards are good for us. We have them in
our work places, schools and public areas. We abide by government laws,
employee handbooks as well as social manners. Standards help us form an
identify of core values, beliefs and expectations that are necessary
for measuring our goals. In fact, my trusty little Webster's New World
Dictionary defines the term this way:
Standard
(noun)
1 the standard of her work quality, level, grade, caliber, merit, excellence.
2
a safety standard guideline, norm, yardstick, benchmark, measure,
criterion, guide, touchstone, model, pattern, example, exemplar.
3 a standard to live by principle, ideal; (standards) code of behavior, code of honor, morals, scruples, ethics.
4 the regiment's standard flag, banner, pennant, ensign, color(s), banderole, guidon; Nautical burgee.
Standards
are universally used in every culture, business and even the Church.
They enable us to measure our distance in arriving at our goals.
Additionally, they ensure a level of accountability to keep us on track
for growth. Some people say that the Church is exclusive from
standards, or does not need to take them as seriously. "We ought to
love and accept people for who they are. Not enforce them to rules,"
churchgoers may defend. This is true, but love is not a standard, it's
a command from Jesus. He says in Mark 12.31 "The second is this: 'Love
your neighbor as yourself.' There is no commandment greater than
these." We do not measure people in order to love or accept them. We
love them as Jesus commanded. It's an action not a condition.
Where were standards introduced in the Church?
1Tim 1.3-8 (warning of false prophets)
1Tim 2:1-11 (instructions in worship)
1Tim 3:2-12 (qualifications of elders and deacons)
What about musicians and singers?
Jud. 5:11 (singers of the LORD)
1Chron. 15:16 (David appoints the Levites)
1Chron. 15:27 (singer in charge)
1 Chron. 25:1-3 (enlistment of the musicians)
2Chron. 29.28 (commissioned for service)
Neh. 7.1 (singers appointed)
We also have exhortations for worship in:
Ps. 7.17, 9.11, 30.4, 66.2
Eph. 5.19, Col. 3.16, Heb. 2.12 and Jam. 5.13
The
Bible does not specify how teams are to be organized today. The
challenge here is for us to take a logistical approach in reflecting
over what Scripture says. The Old Testament focuses on order (law),
while the New Testament focuses on love (grace). It is clear that the
Israelites had standards and expectations in the orchestras and choirs.
The Levites were highly skilled men and women who were specifically
appointed to lead praise. I don't believe they took any person that can
carry a tune in the wash tub. If they were appointed by high leaders of
the Lord, they were chosen by their credentials and proof of skills.
Equipped servants were an invaluable asset for Israel. Their training
was depended upon by the congregation, as it brought respect and honor
to their nation and to God. The same is true for your worship ministry.
Here
is where we find our balance in the Old and New Testaments. Order in
the Church is contextualized through love, prayer and humility. There
are three actions by which leaders can lead their teams. Here are a few
examples: Jesus first tells us to love one another (Jn. 13.34), Paul
implores us to live peaceably with all men (Rom. 12.18), the apostles
pray for wisdom in selecting servants (Acts 1.24), Paul instructs the
Church to dwell in the Word richly (Col. 3.16a) and to serve one
another in the humility of Christ (Php. 2:1-11) while we teach one
another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs (Col. 3.16b). As found in
the Old Testament, you can literally take these passages and meld them
into a framework for your Worship Ministry. Again, we love, pray and
walk in humility as we serve one another.
A Few Misconceptions of Worship Ministry Involvement (church-wide as well)
- Most people think church/ministry is exempt from conflict
- Being on a worship team is a right
- It's my ministry, I can do what I want
- We're the band, they're the audience
- We're the singers, they're the band
- Because I can sing, I must be on the team (or start a tour)
- Because I have an idea, it becomes the rule
- The stage is my oyster, my talent is your pearl
- Because I can means I should
I
will refer back to the overhead misconceptions in a bit. Let's discuss
a few topics that are a derivative from the statements above.
How To Make A Change
Just
because you can, doesn't mean you should. Rethink why you need to make
a change and if it is appropriate. Will it benefit others, or does it
only benefit you? Obviously, some change is in order. Moving on. It has
been said before, and I will say it again: introduce change slowly
overtime. Depending on your immediacy, some things need to change
quickly. For the long haul, it is better to take your time in order to
gain buy-in from your peeps. Corporate America has no problem in making
change quickly. However, this can be a frustration to employees. Even
more so in the local church, things tend to move at a snail's pace. By
introducing your idea, it doesn't mean people will get-it the first
time around. I t may not even mean it is the best idea. I've learned
two more things in ministry: 1. Expect the unexpected. 2. Expect
constant repetition.
Choosing Your Team
Several
worship leaders have asked me about regrouping their worship teams.
Some people were not as gifted as others, while those with commendable
talent were not serving by limitations. They knew they needed to
develop some standards and re-draw the teams. Their fears were stepping
on toes, disappointing long-time veteran members and not to appear as
being disloyal and playing favorites. Sound familiar? Number one clue:
you're never going to make everyone happy in making a decision, just
make sure you make the right decision. Plus, make it at the right time.
Don't
be confused. Serving one another does not mean giving people what they
want instead of what they need. When a baby is able to eat solid foods,
they do not need a steak dinner. When a teenager turns 16 and is
licensed to drive, they need a car not a Ferrari. When a college
student graduates, they need a job, not a CEO position. Although, some
of these things may be nice to have, not sure about the baby and the
steak dinner, but these items do not merit a balanced need/solution.
Choose
your team players on the basis of heart, skill and knowledge, not
policy, obligation nor favoritism. The later will only breed more
strife. Let's say you have a drummer who is not the best, but you are
presented with another player that is miles ahead. Uh oh, turns out
that your current drummer is the Pastor's son. Now what do you do?
Quit, run, eject? Maybe not.
Again, start your decision
framing and asking well-informed questions. Is the current team member
contributing effectively to the team? Are they responsible? Are they
well skilled? Are they committed in showing up on time? Are they
mature? Ok, strip the politics away for this next question. Who would
it hurt and how? Your answer may be found in approaching the team
member with these very questions and observations. You may find that if
you engage in a healthy conversation with your team member, ask
questions, determine a solution and set guidelines, this may help your
circumstance. If you have been there and done that, then make your next
move. For example, you can begin rotating all members (or few) to keep
things even-steven. Holding auditions may be effective. Lastly, you may
need to do the hard work and go to the person and bite and bear the
bullet. Lastly, if you have a good pastor, they are able to help advise
you in your decision making.
Matching The Right Person with the Right Skill
You
may have a team member that wants to be the greatest singer, but they
need to polish their craft. What they really need is to serve, but in a
capacity that matches their gift. Encourage and move them accordingly
to the designated need. You may have someone that believes they are
just an ok guitar player, but they really are John Mayer in disguise.
Problem: they prefer to stay behind the scenes, but you as the worship
leader need their help in leading the band. What do you do? Encourage
them and move the person accordingly to the designated need. Having the
right persons in the right position better balances your team as they
are interdependent of another.
Each team member needs to have
the right skill and must also have the right heart. Having an "us
versus them" mentality will erode and eventually destroy your ministry
if you do not take action. The team is the team as they are also part
of the congregation. As the Bible exhorts, we are members of one
another, which make up the whole Body.
Forming Timelines and Making Deadlines
Let's
say that you are in a position to refine your rehearsal night. Maybe
you need to streamline your start and finish time, reduce the amount of
talk-time and distractions, as well as focus more on other music
elements and etc. One of the best ways to introduce these concerns, is
to have a group meeting either before rehearsal or on another announced
meeting time. Present your vision and goals, communicate how you want
to get there, present the current dilemma and make a follow-through
solution. For example you may say something like: Our vision as a
worship team is to_______. I would like for us to get there by_______
in order to accomplish the goals that God has set before us. Currently
our challenges are __________. I'd like resolve some of these concerns
by doing___________." Lastly, form an accountability question to get
them on the same page. "Can I count on you to help me?" This is a great
way to also handle those one-on-one conversations as well.
Handling Push-backs
Caution.
As seen earlier, there are misconceptions that rear their heads in
worship ministries. They come in the form of people's approach,
opinions and comments. Such as this, people confront you with an issue,
you are faced with a decision to respond. Sometimes, they catch you
off-guard and you have to think quick on your feet. It's easy to let
the anxiety get to you, but you are a leader. You will always have
comments and opinions come your way. Get use to it; this will help
improve your endurance and sustainability in ministry. Or another way a
good friend of mine put it: "you need to develop thick skin." Think
about the life of Christ. How many church members and non-church
members tried to tell him how he should or should not do his job? You
can get through this too. Best approach, paddle like a duck, stay cool
and calm on the surface.
The Truth and Beauty of Standards:
Eph.
4: 10-12 says: "He who descended is the very one who ascended higher
than all the heavens, in order to fill the whole universe.) It was he
who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be
evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God's
people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built
up."
1Cor. 12.29: "Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Do all work miracles?"
Jas. 3.1: "My brethren, let not many of you become teachers, knowing that we shall receive a stricter judgment."
As
you can see from Scripture, each one of us has calling as God ordains.
Not all of us our good at being a teacher, speaker, artist or even a
leader. Our calling is found in what God has gifted you + how you can
grow. Our job is to identify our skills. Our second job, as an
encouragement to people, is to help them find or grow in their gifting
as well.
Many leaders desire to make positive and needful
changes in their ministries. The hesitation experienced comes in the
form of one common concern: who will I disappoint? Could it be a team
member, friend, family member, co-minister or even pastor? If you see
something in your ministry that needs to be improved, take courage, ask
the right questions, form a strategy and get buy-in.
How do you
introduce the new strategy and/or standards? It depends on your church
ministry and senior pastor. Some say that surgery needs to be performed
while it's still young and can be quick and painless. Others prefer to
let time naturally occur as they introduce change slowly. Each have
their advantages and disadvantages.
Remember, identify your
vision, get a plan, engage your people and move forward. Continue to
make the necessary improvements as God commends you. Your ministry is
entrusted to you to care, invest and equip into others. Do this. Again
I encourage you: do not measure people in order to love or accept them.
We love them as Jesus commanded. It's an action not a condition. There
is always more work to do in the unfinished business-side of ministry,
just make sure that you finish one bite at a time. God will refine you
in the process of making you complete for his workmanship.
"being
confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it
on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." - Phil. 1:6
| 
| Plant + Water = Growth
"Can one ever age out in leading worship?" This question was relayed to me just recently by a friend over Facebook.
You
never age out of ministry. We just age! Thank God that we have Moses,
Abraham and Methuselah to look up to. Now, that’s old. As a leader, age
brings wisdom, patience and a special kind of seasoning that can be
shared with others. Question: are you bringing people into your
ministry in order to grow?
Experience
and history go a long way in the shaping of our ministries. We've
invested much time and energy into what we do. But what happens after
us? Where does Scripture ever say that we will hold on to our spots
forever? Never! It is just the opposite. Ecclesiastes tells us –
paraphrasing - that another man is ready to pick up our work. I think
this is the ticket. Being ready. We all have a timeline. When is yours?
When is mine? Are we truly training up leaders to take up the baton and
run ahead in God’s mission? Vision will change overtime, but the
mission of connecting and reaching people never changes. But all the
planting and watering you've done is essential for your ministry to
take root. In fact, without God using you from the beginning, you may
not have the ministry that it is today. But there's one thing that is
most important to be reminded of: it is ultimately God's plant, God's
ministry.
Is
there a time that leaders will age out in worship leading? I say yes.
Do they ever stop leading others? No. As a leader, no matter what age,
God has gifted you with the ability to influence, guide and mentor
people. He has also given you the opportunity, great or small, to be
effective in any ministry environment. This is also key. Many leaders
go through the thoughts of bettering their current situation. I
remember times in my ministry experience where and when I wish things
would change. Albeit, personalities, work environments and superiors,
there were issues that I wish would go away. The problem. Me. I think
often about the words of Jesus in pointing out the speck in other
people's eyes, while neglecting your own plank. It is far too easy to
point out the negative conditions around you. It is far too difficult
to point out the ones within yourself. I know I have plenty. That's
OK. Why? Because anytime we refuse to look within ourselves and see
what God sees, we stop growing. A funny Scripture verse comes to mind
from Proverbs - in paraphrasing - he who hates correction is stupid (Pv
12.1). That's a good one! But here's the kicker. When we ask God to
help us reach down within ourselves for help, we may find an initial
resistance. However, what we truly find is healing, peace and freedom.
Good friend Dennis Jernigan tells us that honesty is one step towards
freedom. I firmly agree with Dennis that true honesty is true freedom
in Christ. When we agree with God our eyes our open. When we respond to
God and allow Him to initiate the changing process, things change. We
change.
If
you think I am taking the long way, you are right. Here's the point.
Often as leaders, we have our own issues with release and control. It
is easy to feel the ownership in something that you have worked hard
for. Your sweat, blood and tears have gone into each of your
ministries. In fact, you may feel that God has used you to lay the
building bricks. You are right. He has used you. If it were not for you
and your passion, where would the ministry be? As in 1 Cor. 3:6-7, Paul
talks about who one plants the seed and the other waters. Both are
essential ingredients, but neither is important. God is the one who
causes the growth. We are allowed by God to humbly participate in the
work He is already doing.
Ok,
put your seat belt on. Ultimately, who has laid the foundation in your
ministry? You or the Lord Jesus Christ? 1Cor. 3 goes on to tell us not
to lay and build on a foundation with wood, hay or precious stones, but
only build upon the foundation which Christ as already laid.
Our
leadership positions are positions to release to others. To empower
someone is to love, trust and watch them succeed. But you cannot
release if you cannot trust. (this is really trusting God first,
yourself then others). Remember those who have led you into the
ministry you're doing now? They reserved a spot for you to take up the
baton and go. Here you are. Now you have the opportunity to release the
blessings God has given you to bless others. Here's the really cool
part. They go on to be a blessing to other people. And those people go
on to bless the next ministry. Truly, the gift does keep on giving.
Fact: it is up to you in your responsibility to respond to God and
train up and release others.
Again,
we never age out of ministry, we just age into new places for the sake
of the Gospel. Take time with those of whom you lead. Be ready to move
with God when he says go. Be blessed as you serve in his calling to
your team. We are never too young nor too old to learn and grow. God
has called you to either plant or water - let Him take care of the
growing as you do you part to serve.
 5.22.09 post: Scott
Are
you sure you aren't called by God to write "Self-Help" books? This is
wonderfully written, insightful, informative, scripture based,
enlightening...I could go on and on. Thanks so much for writing this.
I immediately sent an e-mail out to the entire worship team with a link
to this article. You have hit the "nail" square on the head with
this....GREAT JOB!
| 
| Reaching Generations
In
today’s Emerging times, defining the identity of culture rapidly
transcends the profile and DNA from generation to generation, much like
the characteristics of an amoeba. The influx of nationalities,
religions, ideologies, politics, social economies and cultural trends,
are melded together, yet leave our society without a definitive shape.
How do we reach them?
An Emerging Era - the boundariless sea of
society is a rage of crisis, uncertainty, differences, openness,
multiplicity, and change which describes our current reality. The
world and culture of today is no longer separated and compartmentalized
by continent, nation, language, trend or currency. In this new
millennium, society revolves around the changes of the people and their
culture. No longer do people adapt to society, but society has to adapt
to the changes of its people. The concern of reaching people today
exists in the way the church adapts to people. A major concern in and
outside the church is how to lead worship in an emerging context. The
power and yet uncertainty we face in the Church, one perspective in
question is this: how do we appeal, draw and engage our cultures in an
emergent worship service? One simple answer may be found in the
reflection of our society.
“Contemporary” and “Traditional”
are two of the largest popular styles in church worship specifically
geared to edify and meet worshipers through relevant community
identifications. They both are similar as they define an age group and
identity of 40+. Emergent or Post Modern (while recognizing
vintage-faith, ancient-future, and other polar-spectrums of worship
venues) may identify younger generations of post 9-11's, twenty and
thirty somethings (depending on the local community demographic). It is
also interesting to note that not all 20-30's attend emergent an/or
ancient-future faith services. The young at heart in older generations
find it easy to connect with these services as they personify truth,
grace, acceptance and relativity.
All worship styles:
Contemporary, Traditional, Emergent/Vintage/Post Modern are
preferential tools, styles and vehicles for worship; at the same time
they are conducive for evangelistic contexts. It is essential that the
Church creatively relates and connects with all generations for the
purpose of sharing the Gospel (1Cor. 9.19-23). However, there is a
critical balance in our efforts of constructing worship services.
Historically, there have been attempts where members of the Church have
drifted from the centrality of Christ for the fashion of modeling the
world by worship trends, service ideologies and/or popular mega church
brandings. As a result, the pure nature of the Gospel is altered and
reduced to a social status-quo (Jas. 4.4) or reduced to a mere venue
trend. Emergent or today's generation are seeking for authentic
relationships and the truth and relativity of God. As Christ noted: The
Father is seeking the true worshippers of God (Jn. 4:23).
There
is no one stylistic way to worship – communicate to God; just as are
many human languages to communicate among people there are multiple
expressions in worship to praise God. Communicating Biblically and
effectively to both to our world and Almighty God becomes paramount.
Paul, in 1Cor. 9:19-23, addressed the severity in communicating to all
people through relevancy in order to win people to Christ. His address
serves as a appropriate model for shaping our churches and worship
ministries to connect people to the Life-giving Savior.
Today,
God still calls people to: “seek me and live,” (Am 5:4). To seek God is
eternal where one finds life and life abundantly (Jn. 10:10b). He is
calling us like the Israelites and Judeans to return to His covenant
faithfulness. Seeking the Lord is central to our being and corporate
worship. As Emerging generations rise, it is imperative that we meet
them where they are and not where we were 5-10-20 years ago.
| 
| Spiritual Essentials In Serving
Got Sweet Moves, Skeells? Not to be confused with "nunchuk skills, bow
hunting skills, computer hacking skills...”
I’m talking about skills, ability and knowledge to use in
ministry. No matter our task, we each have a set of essentials that guide our
process. What about our responsibility to our tools and devices that enable us
to serve in worship ministry? More importantly, what is our responsibility to
God in how we serve: our purpose, intension and fruit?
The call of serving thought the arts comes with much responsibility.
Each of us has a calling, whether if you are a singer, musician or artist. God
calls us to serve in His work for His honor and for the sake of the Gospel. The
tools we use in our ministries are not a means to an end; no matter how great
the technology, how cool the instrument or even how wonderful our created art
looks or sounds. Times will come and go and so will our innovations; but there
are four must-have primary essentials. As God provides resources to aid us in
our tasks, our intension and purpose behind our tools will determine the fruit
we bear.
Exodus 31
We see two men summoned by God to
work under the command of Moses in building the Tent of Meeting:
1 Then
the Lord said to Moses, 2 "See,
I have chosen Bezalel son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah,
3 and I have filled
him with the Spirit of God, with skill, ability and knowledge in all kinds of
crafts-- 4 to make
artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze, 5 to cut and set stones, to
work in wood, and to engage in all kinds of craftsmanship. 6 Moreover, I have appointed
Oholiab son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan, to help him. Also I have
given skill to all the craftsmen to make everything I have commanded you: 7 the Tent of Meeting, the
ark of the Testimony with the atonement cover on it, and all the other
furnishings of the tent-- 8 the
table and its articles, the pure gold lampstand and all its accessories, the
altar of incense, 9 the
altar of burnt offering and all its utensils, the basin with its stand-- 10 and also the woven
garments, both the sacred garments for Aaron the priest and the garments for
his sons when they serve as priests, 11 and
the anointing oil and fragrant incense for the Holy Place. They are to make
them just as I commanded you." – Ex. 31:1-11
God hand picked these guys to build and furnish the Tent of
Meeting for the dwelling and worship of God. The four primary essentials that
God provided to these men (and still today) is His Spirit, skill, ability and
knowledge.
Holy Spirit – we
see God empowering man for service in the Holy Spirit: Jud. 3:10; Ex. 31:3; 1Sam. 10:6-7;2
Sam 23:2; Isa. 61:1; Mt.12:18; Lk. 4:18and Jn.14:17.
Skill – Scripture
indicates the uses and importance of skills: 1 Ch.
5:18; 2 Ch.
2:13; 2 Ch. 34:12; Ezk. 28:5; Ps. 33:3; Ps. 144:1.
Ability – is not
the same as willingness; ability defines one who is able (equipped) to complete
the work set before him: Dan 1:4; Neh. 5:8, Mt. 25:15; 2Cor. 8:3; 2Cor. 8:11.
Knowledge – the
fact or condition of knowing something through the gained experience and
learning of His Word in order to discern and perform good works in Christ. Nu.24:16;
1Ch. 1:11; Ne. 10:28; Jb. 42:1-6; Ps. 119:66; Pr. 2:5-6; Rm. 11:33, 1Cor. 1:5; 2Cor.
8:7; Col. 1:10; 2Pt. 2:8; 2Pt. 3:18; Js. 1:5.
We see through Scripture a harmony of how God
employs His spirit, skill, ability and knowledge within a person to perform His
work. Each of us in our ministries are blessed in countless forms that enable
us to do the work and will of God – it is undeniable. God gave each person His guidance
and tools not for our own works but for His - to “be” and “do” the works of
God. So why is it, that we assume ownership over a ministry, possession or task
that is rightly God’s? I guess this also explains why the same person expects
something in return for themselves (not talking about merely compensation). A
motivation to serve based on selfishness, will ultimately yield a worthless
return and not the very true and good fruit that is fit for the King and for the
Kingdom. The obedience and art of service begins when we deny ourselves and
take up our cross to serve Christ alone (Mk. 8:34)
for His glory alone.
Eph. 1 says that we are blessed with every spiritual
blessing in Christ. In 2:10, Paul
tells us that we are the workmanship of Christ, created for good works in
Christ Jesus. This means that God has equipped us for the very purpose to be
crafted into his design for his using. Our actions in serving our ministries
need to be rooted in a belief that says: all is for His will to be done - we
are His workmanship – and not for ourselves. It is easy to get caught-up in the
motions of “serving,” when we focus too much on our tools or the technique.
When we become out-of-touch from the essence of service, even when we get in
our “ruts,” our ministry can grow faint – our zeal for ministry can grow faint.
However, we have help. As we have seen in the first primary essential, we are
given the Holy Spirit. He comes besides us and guides us.
Scriptural Insight on
The Holy Spirit
“But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father
will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to
your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you.” – Jn 14:26. KJV.
In John 14, Jesus shares with his beloved that he is sending
the Holy Spirit, the Great Counselor to aid, comfort and abide in them, as the
disciples go about the work of God. Check this out about the term “Holy
Spirit.” In the NASB and NKJV translations, the word “Helper,” is chosen to
describe the Holy Spirit, which appears in Jn 14:26, Another term used to describe the Spirit is
“Comforter” which is found in the KJV. “Counselor,” is found in the NIV and
RSV. The word “Advocate,” is also seen in the NRSV. For this article I am making
a personal choice to study the term Comforter as it resonates with my
heart and mind in reading the Scriptures.
The Greek root word for Comforter is paraklētŏs: par-ak’-lay-tos.
The prefix of “para” is the primary meaning of “near,” it also has an
action verb meaning of “from,” or “out from,” (found in John 6:19 and 46). It expresses motion or a coming
besides. The suffix “kletos,” means called, invited, welcomed or
appointed (the meaning of called “one who is called - to an office,” is found
in Rom. 1:1 and 1 Cor. 1:1). When we align the prefix and suffix together we
get: parakletos or “The Paraclete,” the One who comes besides.
As the Spirit comes besides us, we are empowered to achieve
greatness in Christ. We begin to experience what Galatians 5:22 implores about the fruit of the Spirit which is
“…love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness…” Because our
service is rooted in His Spirit we are guided as we use our skills, abilities
and knowledge.
In your ministry, there’s no need to use nunchucks, bow
hunting and computer hacking (you may get arrested); but rather our essentials
are the Holy Spirit, skills, abilities and knowledge to do His work for his
glory. Serve with gladness in His purposes as you yield fruit that is worthy of
the King and the Kingdom. Remember to keep your sweet moves.
|  | Leading Change In Ministry
2 Most Feared Words in the Church
"Change," is the most feared word in the Church.
"Patience," is the most feared word in Worship and AV Ministries.
Now What? Change in ministry, whether staffing, direction, mission-vision
or re-assignments can either stop followers in their tracks or hinder leaders
in processing and making effective decisions. Suggested book: John Kotter,
"Leading Change" is a good resource for teams and leaders to
ascertain change and how it is or isn't received.
Think COW
C - Consider - the people first.
Your idea may be the best idea since the invented wheel. But who will lead your
idea? What role will you play in your idea? If your without answers that
involve yourself, the idea may not be as practical as you first thought. More
importantly, how does your idea benefit others? Are you sure they would agree?
Having a vision is a wonderful thing, but having input is what makes it fly.
Additionally, the need for change begins with the end in mind. Are your people
wondering if you're giving them a green light to participate?
O - Overtime - introduce change slowly.
When change moves slowly, you begin to learn more about the people and the
process; this helps you navigate more cautiously as your newly introduced idea
politely befriends people. When your idea is "shared" rather than
"shoved" people will be more open to receive change.
W - Wait - be hurry to wait.
Let patience have it's perfect work with you as others catch on. This will
breed buy-in and ownership; without them change will be a frustration to others
and possibly cause animosity within the group you are trying to lead or
influence.
Story of a Cow: a business man and a church.
A business man in a power suit grows impatient with the cow on the other side
of the fence. After ranting and raving he demands, "cow...I want you to
produce milk for me right here, right now." The cow just stares back at
him chewing his cud. The man hollers out, "hey cow! Make me milk or I'll
turn you into hamburger!!" The cow has the same non-response. (Story
Source by Leonard Sweet)
What's actually going on in this picture? The cow is producing milk. By
chewing and processing the grass over-time, milk is the final result. Change
can feel like this.
Wise Questions to Ask Before Change is Introduced.
Here are five questions to post/think that may gauge team and leader
perceptions and/or ministry strategies. Basically, these questions can foster
healthy dialogues and give both the team and leaders a common ground to listen
and discuss.
1. What are the five most important things about our ___________ that
need to be preserved and why? (Form a Need)
2. What are the top three things we need to change and why? (Form a Plan)
3. How will this help or hurt you? (Form a Purpose)
4. What role will you play in this idea? (Form a Commitment)
5. What are our celebrated short & long term goals? (Form a
Follow-through & Party)
Overall: how you consider, overtime and wait in your leading of
change, you set people's expectations in a healthy was while you also establish
credibility and precedence.
| | |
 Chuck Gibson - post
this article is awesome. I really appreciated the illustration about
the COW. That really helped in understanding the nature of change and
how important it is as a leader to allow the process to happen
naturally. Not forced.
|  | 5 Synergies Of A Team
Clues that make or
break a worship ministry.
1. Relationships - Our first priority begins with the Triune God who
is worthy of our worship. In every breath and pulse of a ministry, it is about
people. Love, acceptance and joy must be cultivated for spiritual and biblical
health, without them a ministry cannot function effectively. A calling to
worship leading needs to be present in the heart of team members, where there
is an understanding and a response that is breathed by God just as we see
Samuel's response in I. Sam. 3:10.
2. Leadership - Is defined by the art of accomplishing more than the
science of management says is possible. The DNA of a ministry is found in the
development and empowerment of people, which means mentoring, defining and
equipping people for a journey of purpose. Having a vision, common goals, clear
communication and the visibility of your values will help spur on teams towards
missional purpose with fruitful results. Vision without execution is simply
illusion.
3. Resources - These are essential building blocks to nurture
spiritual, personal and professional development. The integral blocks of
formation are found in the following: 1) Spiritual - worship, prayer, study,
support groups and testimonies. 2) Personal - identification of gifting and
right placement, training and teaching opportunities, acts of celebrations and
esteeming team members. 3) Professional: private and group skill instruction,
educational/training books, internet sites, podcasts and other development
material as well as a helpful listing of other resource recommendations.
4. Tools of Worship - A plethora of technology and devices are
employed to help the facilitation of worship services - a/v, films, dramas,
dance, musical instruments and computers. Tools in worship are essential for
productivity, but only as they remain tools and not the object of our worship -
they are a means and not an end. Worship teams need to have a rhythm that
matches and speaks to the church's surrounding community. Musically speaking,
the worship team's #1 job is to facilitate congregational song. The band
supports the singing and not vice versa; simply, we help the congregation
worship. Concerning bands, it was said before: the most we can do is the least
we can do. Worship needs to be full of breath and space, while offering
tangible and organic invitations for people to participate in the splendor and
response to God.
5. Dreams - A ministry needs an atmosphere where people are freed-up,
influenced, challenged and released to live their dreams, as they enable
individuals to create new possibilities within your ministry. Biblical freedom
enables people to be who they are in Christ as they pursue ministry endeavors
for the Gospel. "If anyone speaks, let him speak as the oracles of God.
If anyone ministers, let him do it as with the ability which God supplies, that
in all things God may be glorified through Jesus Christ, to whom belong the
glory and the dominion forever and ever. Amen." – 1Pt. 4.11
| | |
|  | Solitude FoundIn reflecting over the past week at NWLC,
I’ve had a few takeaways of my own. I guess the simplest thing was
having time away. Time away from all other responsibilities. Time away
from the push and the pull.
The
conference was held at Riverbend Church in the hill country (foothills)
of Texas. The building was very impressive as it offered large angular
windows that engaged your senses to the outdoors. The tall and deep
rich cedar woods on the inside of the building seems to guide you to a
quiet and gentle solace. As the services and worship progressed through
out the week, this place of worship gave you a feeling of home and
familiarity.
If
you do not know, Central Texas and Austin is one of the most beautiful
landscapes in all of Texas. My wife and I visit the hill country
frequently. The scene is very dark foliage overlooking the meandering
river that lazily swims by the church side. The main bridge takes you
right over to the church campus as you travel through roads of cut rock.
Riverbend’s
chapel has stone-white and limestone walls on the frame arches of dark
rich mahogany beams. As you enter through its heavy wooded doors, you
see the worship space itself - intimate with old english style pews
with a very high stone ceiling. The pulpit area had a marble floor with
simple wall accents of icons and relics. The space itself was
captivating and atheistically pleasing.
The
church campus is nestled among the hills dotted with trees of deep
green and airbrushed accents of shrubs against etchings of white rock.
The fragrance from the cedar trees lingered through the hillside as
golden sunbeams pierced through the shadows. Through out the landscape
you will find small creeks, stones and walking paths that are peppered
with sign-markers of engraved Scripture verses, which acts as your tour
guide to solitude.
Having
the conference at the retreat-style environment/local church made this
conference a special treat. I ran into numerous good friends and
churches and was excited to hear of their experience. To my surprise, I
found myself not alone. I know I was in love with the surroundings and
others felt the same. It seemed that almost everyone commented on the
uniqueness of the conference. At first, I was expecting folks to share
stories of their favorite classes and the attended seminars. The
overall conversation among my friends were fixed upon their time alone
with God. Many shared that they really came to the conference to be
ministered to and not so much to learn what’s “new,” but rather what
God was speaking into them. Fellow ministers communicated how the
conference gave them time away and to not have to “worry,” about
anything. They felt great in the worship services to simply participate
and not to lead. Others, told me how God had replenished their inner
longings of spiritual fulfillment while others through silent tears,
were awestruck to learn just how dry they really were and now had the
opportunity to be filled as well.
Each
of them shared their experiences of the Tabernacle, which seemed to be
the outdoor highlight. The Tabernacle was an actual replica of the
Biblical dwelling of God. Marked off by private walls from the outside,
the tabernacle was a place behind the walls for individual worshipers.
Tickets were given to participants as they were asked to come not by
groups, but individually at certain times so each person can take-in
the experience and to not feel rushed. One by one, people would enter
the area. You were given an mp3 player and/or headphones as a recorded
guide explained biblical/historic details of the tabernacle. In certain
spots along the way you were able to meditate and pray. As you are
finally led to the inner sanctum, you were free to commemorate your
devotion to God in the special time. As partakers explained, it really
gave them a sense of what it must have been like in early Israel. They
were moved by the spiritual tour that also wet their appetite for the
rest of the day/evening’s worship services and classes.
All
the days for me left me with the same experience as I met God either in
solitude or in mass with people. The worship time was so intimate that
as I was with my brothers and sisters I also felt face to face with
God. The power of solitude and cooperate worship was powerful. Doesn’t
this sound like a great place for you? Just to get away from it all and
just “be” with God? I know for me, this was a needed and cherished
time.
| | |
|  | For Pete's Sake
I had a phone call from one of the churches in which I recently
provided a workshop/clinic. The excitement in his voice and the
laughter over the phone filled my heart with smiles. He went on to tell
me how much fun his worship team had at rehearsal. Even when practice
was over, his team did not leave. They stood around describing how much
they’ve
enjoyed and what they have learned from Wednesday night. Did this
really happen? Why all this excitement after an ordinary rehearsal? How
did they become so amped-up, that they couldn’t wait for the next
Sunday service to arrive? Is this not normal?
“Humility does not mean you think less of yourself. It means you think of yourself less.”
— Ken Blanchard, Motivational Speaker & Author
Here’s
the pretext from this phone conversation. Recently, I was asked to
conduct a follow-up clinic/rehearsal with this church. I happily
accepted and was looking forward to see the familiar faces and friends.
Prior to my visit, I was encouraged by the leadership to arrange the
rehearsal as I saw fit. In fact, I was told directly to make any
changes that I wanted, even if it meant that others were to be “set
straight.” The Spirit inside of me said “red flag!” but outwardly I
pleasantly responded with a positive level of assurance.
The
rehearsal night was here. As I saw the team members pile in, I noticed
that they seemed happy, but a bit apprehensive. Maybe not having their
regular worship leader directing their rehearsal seemed to fill them
with wonder of the night’s agenda.
As we moved through the order
of music, I went around the room asking questions to identify concerns
and needs. My first concern was to ensure that they not only understood
the flow, but the had the means to confidently participate in the
rehearsal. Again, I noticed a slight bit of awkwardness. Eyebrows
bashfully raised as I entertained some questions. After we made the
necessary adjustments, we were ready to roll.
We began rehearsal
with a familiar and fun song just to ease the coming-off-of-work state
of mind. By the second song, everyone had their groove on. I could tell
that the team was closely watching me for any sort of hint or subtle
move. Normally, I tend to run the complete song through once, before
making any adjustments. After we ran through the second song, I stopped
to make a few modifications. Before speaking, all eyes hit the floor.
Knowing that their leader was absent, they looked as if they were
afraid of something. I stepped back and thought to my self:
“hmmm...this team was so energized and uplifted when we last met. What
happened?” I couldn't understand the trepidation.
From the
song’s standpoint, I didn’t feel that the musicians and singers were
playing comfortably. So I did something. I gave a few pointers on the
song’s direction and format, but in the same breath I asked them how
they felt. I really wanted to hear what they heard musically. After
all, they are the ones really creating the “sound” for the song. My
job was to lead and facilitate.
Each of them began in a timid
soft spoken voice. As I listened, the ideas were rolling towards a
crescendo of possibility and optimism. Before, I knew it, we were off
playing again to the very suggested ideas. Faces were now bright and
full of enthusiasm as we played through the music. We broke out into
laughter quite a few times during and after the songs. At one point, I
noticed the joy was coming back into the room. We covered the rest of
the music set in the same manner: mapping out the form, voicing
concerns and implementing ideas in a timely fashion. (it’s good to be
mindful of your rehearsal time in making it efficient in all respects.)
After collaborating with a few more ideas, I showed them a few of my
own and we completed the rehearsal. Our time was over, but people were
still singing and playing of on their own. As I said goodbye, each of
them shared with me how much they enjoyed practice. I returned the
similar feelings of satisfaction. In my reflection, it was simple: we
had fun.
I am startled by a few perspectives in question that
overtime, have altered human thought: what purpose does it serve to
place agendas higher than people? Why do we have more “my-ways” than
highways. When were we told that having fun compromises our reputation?
How do we “look” if we are perceived by others as “not in control.”
Will God stop loving us if we fail?
Like you, I find that
unnecessary pressures only breed resentment and fear. Ministry is about
people. Volunteering is about volunteering and serving is about
service. There are those who believe that in order to maintain your
status in the church, world or life, you must exert pressure on to
others. This simply stems down to a lack of security in one’s self and
a lack of honesty and faith in God. As a result, fear and bitterness
turns into torment, which widens the gap between strife and grace as
well as isolation and community.
Abraham Lincoln said: “Every
man is said to have his peculiar ambition. Whether it be true or not, I
can say for one that I have no other so great as that of being truly
esteemed of my fellow men, by rendering myself worthy of their esteem.”
I
am learning everyday that it has to do more with Pete than it does with
me. When we look at the esteeming style of Jesus, he never once turned
people away. I am reminded when the disciples were tired and wanted
rest, but the crowd of 5,000 were hungry. Jesus faced his disciples who
were imploring him to send them away, he replied: “no, you give them
something to eat.” That pretty much ended the discussion. There was no
discussion because Jesus was here on earth for mankind not himself.
Our
family life, personal life and ministry life can easily be infiltrated,
shaped and nurtured by the grace, honesty and love of Jesus. May we be
a people that esteem other better than ourselves. As a byproduct,
people of the world will know us by our love for one another (Jn.
13:35). | | |
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