Worship for Whom?

We spend all this time during the weeks leading up to each Sunday, preparing song/set lists' for what we hope will be an opportunity for meaningful worship. But who is it for? Why do we spend all this time and energy in prayer and study? Sounds like it would be an easy question to answer, doesn't it? Well...


In the ministry of music, it never is. And that is a sad state of the church today.


I grew up in a very 'traditional' style Southern Baptist and occasionally American Baptist setting. It seems that all I ever did in those settings was what the established, founding members wanted. "We like hymns and choirs, and we like special music that puts other people on pedestals, all, of course, for the glory of God." Really?


I don't ever remember hearing a music minister/pastor/director say, "Today, we're going to sing songs that would make God smile, not us!"
In fact, very few churches TODAY still are not willing to say that, let alone think it.


Since I have been here, my main goal was to present music to the King that would put a smile on His face. And, at times, it has put on frown on some of our own people. For that, I am not sorry.


It's not about what you like or what makes you feel all warm and fuzzy. That is NOT worship. Our musical worship has to come from a deep place in our hearts, a place that only you/I and God know. A place that helps connect Him to the change He has made in your/my life.


When the team and I take our place each Sunday, our prayer for the body is very simple: "We invite those who are gathering here today to join us as we worship and praise You, Your Holy name. Open the hearts of those that are hurting, broken, stubborn, angry, sad - take them to the place where we hope to meet You today. It's all for YOU, Father. Use us to glorify Your Name, and Your Name alone!"


That's what we do and who we do it for. How about you? When you come, what are you bringing to give to Him? What are you willing to let go of to let God into your worship time, both here and in your private time? What are you willing to surrender to let Him really have the best of your heart in worship?


I'm going to step WAY OUT on a limb here and challenge you. If you're not willing to surrender your 'preference' of music (style or otherwise) for the chance that God could use whatever music is being given as worship, don't come to church. Seriously. Don't take up space if you're not willing to trust that God can use ANY kind of music, media, speaker, etc. to praise and honor Him.


HOWEVER, if you're willing to step out and trust an INCREDIBLE GOD, and let Him speak to your heart - come and bring someone with you! He NEVER lets me down when we, as a family, worship from that deep, personal place. NEVER! I don't think He'll let you down either. But that first step is up to you.


So...take that step and see what God can do.

See ya in church!