This post is part information – part confession.
What’s the secret? How do we as worship leaders make the experience “awesome?”
There’s the obvious: cool lights, slick countdown clocks, built-in expectation via Twitter, cool sermon graphics (bumpers makes great impressions), excellent music (with broad appeal as to not offend anyone), and a studio-like house mix. Then there are the intangibles: sharp wardrobe, progressive haircut, and we cannot underestimate the importance of modeling worship. By modeling, we usually mean careful body language and facial contortions that clearly communicate… “I’m really into this!”
By now, you’re pounding your fist and screaming “That’s not right! That’s so immature and shallow. I’m not like that. I know my Bible. Worship is a lifestyle!”
Right on, worship leader! But let me ask – what occupies most of your time during the week? What occupies most of your thoughts? What do you practice? What upsets you most when it goes wrong on Sunday?
Why do I sound so condemning? Because I’m the culprit! I’m guilty! If you think I’m writing this because I’ve mastered true worship and risen above the fray – nothing could be further from the truth.
I have a B.A. in Music and Bible and a Masters in Worship. I’ve been exposed to the best teaching on the subject. So what does that make me? A more educated hypocrite!
There’s One essential component to great worship – and you’ve guessed it – God Himself! There’s only one way to be changed into a legit worshipper – obedience. He reveals Himself – we obey. We’re exposed to His word – we obey. We’re moved by the Spirit – we obey! There are no shortcuts here – no fad-diets – and no faking it. This comes as a result of intentional time with God and surrender.
Daily Scripture intake is non-negotiable (see my previous post). Practically, I would recommend great podcasts (check out Mars Hill) and audiobooks. Redeem your time. Read great books on the subject like How to Worship Jesus Christ by Joseph S. Carrol and The Knowledge of the Holy by A.W. Tozer. Also, get some exercise – and get outside – Jesus did. These are just recommendations. The point is to get time with God!
Now regarding the list I started with, you may say, “Somebody has to do it.” Agreed. In fact, I often think my title ought to be Pastor of Production rather than Pastor of Worship. So I simply say this – do it! Do it well and with all your heart. Enjoy it! But as you’re doing it, recognize that all the stuff is only a shadow – a mimic of the real thing – not the real thing itself.
Focus the majority of your energy and time on your own walk with God – it’s the most important thing you’ll ever have. Share it with others. Inspire those around you with the reality of God’s holiness as you’re exposed to it. This will inspire greater worship than a thousand moving lights.
