I often talk on my Fan Page as well as here on the blog about how we should endeavor to see our service in music ministry as so much bigger than ourselves. At no other time is that more evident than at times of emotional strife.
As I write this the many African-Americans have very heavy hearts of the recent not guilty verdict handed down to George Zimmerman in the killing of Trevon Martin. Most of the world learned the news of this verdict over the weekend and were still struggling with feelings of anger, sadness and betrayal as we made our way to our churches for morning worship.
It is at times like these that I am most acutely aware of the incredible responsibility we have as ministers of music. One definition of the word “Balm”, is “a soothing, healing or comforting quality”. In times of remorse, discouragement and sadness God can use the power of music to uplift and make glad the hearts of His people.
I often feel an obligation at times like these-events that affect us all so profoundly-to do everything I can to insure that the music we provide acts as a balm to heal the hearts of people who are struggling to cope.
In times like these we can easily make the wrong choice and end up presenting something that would only make the situation worse and more painful. Like the really sad song chosen for a funeral, for example.
At times like these the best thing we can do is be aware of current events that might adversely affect the moods of the congregation and try to offer music that will uplift, encourage and heal. I for one went to church this morning, the day after the not guilty verdict was handed down, saddened, frustrated and wondering why God, why always us?
I was almost at the point of tears as I drove to church. But an up-beat, hand-clapping, foot-stomping rendition of I Shall Not Be Moved by the Male Chorus this morning not only lifted my spirits but the overall mood of the congregation. That’s the power of music ministry, and that’s the awesome responsibility that we all have as ministers of music. And that’s why I am always humbled to have been chosen to play some part in administering the soothing, healing, comforting power of music ministry at times when God’s children need it most.
