IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

I had the opportunity to share some closing thoughts yesterday to the church where I have faithfully served for nearly four years.  (for those just joining us, I was released from my position due to budget cuts).  

I received many encouraging comments about what I shared and, so, I decided to offer an abridged version here on my blog for those who missed it. 

First - I thanked the church for their love and support.

Then I reminded everyone that earlier in the service we had all made a vow, via reciting The Lord's Prayer.  Basically we affirmed that God is the Almighty ruler of all and that He is to be hallowed. Then I reminded us, as the prayer does, that it's God's Will - not OURS - that we seek to be "done." We must seek GOD'S will - not our agenda for what we think should be done.  Not our ideas of the correct music, or color of the room, or pastoral leadership - but God's will.  This is true, by the way, for all churches.  Today's church seems sidetracked and eager to do God's work for him, making decisions that tend to be more in line with what we humans want to the point of practically ignoring what God may have for us which (as rumor has it) is ALWAYS better.  

Before I left the platform I responded to the question I've been hearing... "...how do you feel?"  My answer to that question is that I have peace like a river, joy like a fountain and love like an ocean in my soul.  The river is the moving and power of the Holy Spirit.  The joy is Jesus Christ in my life.  The love is as vast as an ocean - that is God's love for us and our love for each other.

Thanks MPC for being my home these past four years. And thanks to the many who I was able to serve within the area of music, worship and the creative arts.  Blessings as you continue in your search for the next Pastoral leadership.

Dan McGowan

August 12, 2019

WATCH YOUR LANGUAGE!

Okay, this post will not be very long.  Just a "thanks" and a "suggestion."

At 62 I find myself seeking whatever is next in terms of a ministry position.  The church in which I have served for 4 years has suddenly found itself losing members and money (this happens in churches, sadly).  Bottom line - few key positions have been cut - one of them being mine.

So, the search has begun.  

My primary role in churches has been leading music and worship, so that's my starting point. The quest has been a little confusing and somewhat disheartening mainly due to the current climate of Christian churches today and the lack of clarity in job descriptions.

So, first, I want to very honestly say "thank you" to those churches who clearly state in their job description that they are specifically seeking younger, hipper, edgier, stage-savvy musicians with a knack for being up-front and performing their worship leading.  Truly - this is helpful!  Because it saves me (and you) from wasting time submitting resumes for a ministry position I neither want nor am qualified for based on the call sheet.

I also want to thank the churches who have the courage to admit that they are seeking a quality musician who is less interested in performing and more interested in helping the congregation discover a depth to the worship encounter through music and other elements.  Because that is me and I gladly send off my resume to those churches. 

Then, my suggestion - to all the churches out there who offer ambivalent or "expected and appropriate" wording that says one thing but means another - at least when the interview arrives...  Please go back and re-write your job listing!  You are doing a disservice to your church and music and worship leaders out there who are seeking their next ministry position.  Don't beat around the bush.  Just honestly say who you are and what you are looking for.  

Thanks!

Okay, back to the ministry job search...

AHHHHHHHH

Recent life events have caused me (forced me?) to pay attention to an area of my life that I have struggled with over these past several decades.  It is the issue of contentment. Or, more to the point, my lack of contentment.  Even more direct - my inability to choose contentment in the various situations I find myself in.  And it is only because of the minimal amount of growth I have seen in that area up until recently that my eyes have been opened to observe a persistent lack of contentment with some of my fellow followers of Christ and, in particular, how we approach the weekly gathering called "a worship service."

Many of us (I won't say "most" because nobody like hyperbole) seem to struggle constantly with a sense of contentment when it comes to the worship services in our churches.  Some of that lack of contentment comes from the comparison game - we look around at the nearby popular churches and wish our church could be just as popular.  Or, we have our own agendas and ideas of what would make our church "better" or, dare I say it, "perfect."  

The list is long and, almost, endless.  But here's a short list:

The songs are too fast / the songs are too slow / the songs are repeated too much / the music is too loud / the words on the screen are too small / why can't we sing hymns / why can't we hold the hymnals in our hands / the guitar player is too showy / the singer is pitchy / the room is too light / the room is too dark / the service time is too early / the service time is too late / I can't stand for 3 songs / we need more art / communion takes too long - - - - - - shall I go on?

Some actually believe (they have told me) that God will be "better worshiped" if the items on that above list were "fixed."  Newsflash - God doesn't give a hoot if the slides don't flip on time and he is not "better worshiped" by a stellar musician who is up there for the "gig."  God cares about the heart. And before you start whining about "excellence" please research the Bible and do a word study on "excellence" and "skill" as they are used in the famous passages always tossed about.  You might be surprised...

Why is it we are simply not content with the manner in which our church leaders put together the worship gathering?  If you read the previous post, another question might be - why are we focusing on the fingers and missing the masterpiece?  

Well, this is going to sting but I believe it is true...

The reason we are not content with the worship service is because we are not content with God.  

Yes, we think we are.  We said the prayer.  We teach Sunday school and have been since the Roosevelt administration.  Or we go to modern church camps that offer a fantastic worship show during the week or listen to the fantastic Christian music playing on Christian radio and then come home to our "average" church musicians and we feel let down.   

Right before Jesus was killed... stop, read that again.  RIGHT BEFORE JESUS WAS KILLED.  What was he doing?  Was he pacing around looking for a way out of his situation?  No, he was not pacing around.  Yes, he did pray that if there was any possibly way for God to stop it, then please do it, Father.  But he made that statement with a spirit and heart and attitude of contentment in his situation. He was in a garden praying.  A few hours later he'd be hung on a cross to die.  

The only way to find contentment in whatever situation we face is to first find contentment with God.  And that is far more than hanging a fish on the trunk of your car.  

Challenge - this next Sunday when you go to your church, pray first - at home, in the car, on the walk up to the doors - pray that God gives you the gift of total contentment. Make the choice to not make one comment about anything you feel is "wrong."  When that thought arrives, kick it to the curb and remember that it did not come from God.  (So, where did it come from?  Yep, that's right!)  Leave that thought or comment where it belongs - smoldering in the fire and ashes of hell.  And then - shift your focus, adjust your vision, align yourself with God, Jesus and the power of the Holy Spirit.

Choose to be content.  

MISSING THE POINT

As I was on the road this morning I was, as usual, trying to find a way to lovingly talk about how far worship has drifted from biblical reality in most of today's churches.  It's a difficult topic to discuss because many of us, unwilling to confront and discuss possible problems, simply divert the conversation saying that "worship is personal" which basically means - shut up.

For some reason (I like to think God was behind this) the image above came to mind.  This is the eternally famous center of the Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo.  I've never see this in real life - I can only imagine how awesome it must be!

I had to go find an image to prove my belief about one aspect of this painting - something that really bugs me - it bugs me a lot, in fact.  I'm not even sure if you notice but, to save time, let me tell you what it is that really bugs me.  For clarity, the figure on the left is Adam (first man).  The figure on the right is God surrounded by His angels.  It is heaven reaching down to touch earth.  The only thing is... GOD'S FINGER IS NOT ACTUALLY TOUCHING ADAM'S FINGER!  It just sort of lingers there, not even making contact!  And that bugs me!  I am focused on the fact (and it IS a fact, because you can see it right there in the painting!) that the fingers ARE NOT TOUCHING!  Would it have been so hard for the painter to just add a few more micro-inches of paint and make the fingers TOUCH?  I bet even I could have done that!  Grab a brush, dab on some paint and FINISH THE PAINTING!

I bet at least one of you reading this thought to yourself, "Hey, uh, Dan - you are missing the unbelievable beauty and effort of the rest of the painting that surrounds what you perceive to be a mistake..."  To which I would say, "Yep."

Friends - this is exactly what we are doing in most of our churches today.  We enter a sacred room set aside for the purpose of completely glorifying (and I mean REALLY glorifying) the Creator, the Master, The Awesome God of all we have ever, or will ever know.  But instead of doing that, we "notice" that there is one extra music stand on the stage that should not be there.  Or we "notice" that one (or dare I say two) of the slides flipped a few seconds late.  Or we "notice" that the worship leader sang the word "the" instead of "a" during the song.  Or we "notice" that one of the lights is out in the sanctuary.

We "notice" that the fingers are not touching...

In a time when the worship in many churches has become not much more than a hectic attempt to produce and perform well-crafted "sets" that include songs about God (so you can call them "worship" with a sense of integrity) but never really ushering the congregation into a deeper awareness of being in the transforming presence of God, through Christ in the power of the Holy Spirit, it is upon each of us to stop noticing the disconnected fingers - and focus on the beauty and wonder that surrounds those fingers.

HELLO, GOODBYE

That's me - well, you can't see me - I'm off-camera... but I'm the fellow the imaginary doorman is calling out to.  Read on...

The church in which I have served for nearly four years suddenly announced that, due to an array of changes that have taken place in the church (we're on our 3rd interim pastor in about 3 years) numbers and finances have drastically dropped causing the church to eliminate a few key staff positions, one of them being mine.  So, I'm on the job-hunt, waiting on God for what's "next."

Of course this has led me to seek new ministry positions on sources like ChurchStaffing, Indeed, Linked-in, Google and others. 

If you've read any of my posts on this blog you already know I have a deep passion for worship that is more than a show or just a collection of well-choreographed God-songs.  For me, worship is not a song set, or a style, or a format... worship is about one thing - responding to the Almighty God who created all with every part of my being - my brain and body; my heart and soul; my mind and strength.  I am not interested in watching a thematically-driven, media-laden worship performance.  (If I wanted that, I'd head over to a "worship concert" being performed by one of today's "worship celebrities."  Or just pop in a Hillsongs DVD... did I say that out loud?)  

But I am in church - gathered with other men and women who need to sense the powerful and transforming presence of God empowered by the Holy Spirit.  

Today's church culture, sadly, has turned worship (an ACT; a RESPONSE of THE HEART) into a commodity (a THING; something to WATCH and ENJOY).  So, it's not surprising to me that nearly every single job listing for "worship director" or "worship leader" or even "worship pastor" begins with a long list of biblical qualifications to be a church leader and then eases into the performance aspect of the job.  Some of the descriptions have, honestly, left me with my mouth wide open.  

"... under 40, a healthy appearance, not overweight..."

"... accomplished vocalist and front man..."

"... able to perform worship well..." (what? PERFORM worship well?)

About 1 out of 25 shows hope. It is clear by the church website and their description of worship (and other aspects of the church) that their first love - the primary passion - has nothing to do with learning how to become yet another church that simply performs worship on Sundays.  They are intentional about truly worshiping (adoring, glorifying, honoring, praising) God - regardless of music styles, the age of the team, the make-up of the band, or the color of the room!  They simply want to give to God all He deserves with all that they are.  That is so refreshing!!  And, sadly, so rare.

Most of these churches want to see footage of you in action.  On one hand, this makes perfect sense, especially if you are looking at a church out of state.  They simply want to know that you can do what you claim to do on your resume. (side note - it seems odd to me that the fact you have served in this role at other churches for long periods of time doesn't seem to "prove" your value.)  The truth is, these churches want to see how well you "perform."  One church even listed the requirement of sending in... "footage of yourself performing worship."  And a-one, and a-two... Eeek.  

"I'll take a side of worship, please..."

The other thing I notice is the very low level of care some churches even give to the office of "worship leader."  Generally speaking, and certainly because of budgets, I am sure, many churches want a "music leader" in a very part-time position - yet the job listing is nothing close to a truly part-time job.  Basically, they say, "we want someone to totally transform the hearts of the congregation and help us build a worship culture that changes the community by leading large teams made up of band and singers and be someone who attracts others to the church because of your immense talent and showmanship and ensure all songs fit the pastor's theme and recruit and train more musicians to create multiple praise teams and know all about sound and lighting and media and be able to create media-driven gatherings with exciting visuals and also, as time allows, lead the youth ministry." And then the next line says, "10-12 hours per week."  These churches simply have no idea of how important a ministry of worship (not just "music" but the overall call of God for us to become people of worship) is to the body.  Deep down they realize what they know they should be seeking (as made evident in their description) but then they treat it like a side-dish.  But if you truly desire to fulfill all the wonderful (and needed) elements in the job listing, then you need to realize there is a value for that - for the experience and skill - and that it takes a lot of time to actually develop a worship culture in a church.  It's a full-time job if you want it done right.  If, however, you simply want a great showman to lead the band - then just say that - be honest about it.  

Several things I need to consider on this new journey...

1. I am not a hip millennial who looks good in torn jeans with hair (ha!) dripping over half of my face.  I'm more of a "seasoned worshiper with a comb-over." 

2. I do love performing - COMEDY.  And I even enjoy SINGING as a performance.  But no part of me is interested in "performing" worship.  I can't imagine that pleasing God. 

3. I am called and gifted to guide a gathering into a deeper awareness of being in God's presence through music (and, really, any styles is fine with me) - but that music has a purpose and it is not to entertain the audience (or, as we used to call them, the "congregation.") 

So, the hunt continues.  I pop through revolving doors joyfully anticipating God saying, "Next!" And when He does, I go.  

Because that's what a worshiper does. 

HOLY SEARCH ENGINE LIGHT

I have no idea if this will resonate with readers or not.  Truth is, I never know.  But I write anyway, otherwise I go bonkers as my brain explodes.  Plus that's messy.

I seem to read many books or hear many people discuss the various things that are "missing" for them regarding "church."  Some grew up in very strict religious families that held to very strict conservative beliefs that, for them, have not rung true as they have grown into adults.  Others have misconceptions about "church" based on the media (print, TV, films, etc.).  Still others seem to have a sense of loss or, worse, ambivalence when it comes to this thing called "going to church."  They can't relate to the songs or the sermons or other aspects of the gathering.  Or they know some of the people well and have seen how they act away from church and, therefore, feel led to label them hypocrites. At the very least, when push comes to shove (like elder meetings! ha!) - many feel disconnected or even let down by "the church" for a variety of reasons.

Before you feel led to label me judgmental, let me confirm that I have been that very same person - the one pointing fingers of blame for the same reasons.  

But something happened to me about 40 years ago (well, it began about 40 years ago and has been continually gnawing at me ever since that time.)  I met the actual Holy Spirit!  

If you call yourself a follower of Jesus Christ then you intellectually and spiritually know and believe that the moment you come to a saving relationship with Jesus, you are what theologians call "regenerated."  You are a new creation.  You are born again.  And, at that moment, the Holy Spirit takes up residency in your life - like a much more meaningful version of a conscience or Jiminy Cricket.  The Holy Spirit is your guide, your counselor, your barometer, if you will.  And, that is a fantastic mystery that I truly don't fully understand.  And, I'm okay with that.

But 40 years ago, after 10 years of living as a Christian, attending church, going to camps, going to Bible studies, and hearing about the Holy Spirit, I suddenly encountered his presence in a way I had not up to that point in my life.  I don't think the church I attended deliberately ignored the Holy Spirit, it was just a somewhat "unmentionable understanding" and we never delved deeper.  

Space does not afford me what is needed to share the full story and I apologize for that.  But, bottom line, I met THE power source when I met the Holy Spirit.  For me, personally, it was not wrapped up in the hoopla of speaking in tongues (though I have) or flopping around on the ground, or any other manifestations that appear to others as crazy.  For me, it was more of a solidification and confirmation that what I felt in my heart (but never uttered) was true - that there really is power available to all who call ourselves followers of Jesus.  

And, it is that power - the power of the Holy Spirit - that has always - and I honestly mean always - allowed me to remain as free as humanly possible from the various "church longings" for which others seem to be either missing, or constantly in search of.  

In other words, I don't find myself wishing the theology in the hymns or modern songs was more profound or even "accurate" - because I trust the Holy Spirit will sort any confusion and simply fill me with his presence.  I don't find myself eager to complain about specific "issues" during the gathering because I know the Holy Spirit fills me with his presence.  I don't find myself searching for some unattainable "other" because the greatest "other" of all - the Holy Spirit - fills me with his presence and I simply am no longer interested in, or in need of, searching for "more."  I don't say this to puff myself up - not at all!  I say it to ENCOURAGE anyone reading this who does find themselves constantly in search of "more out of church" to simply take some time and ask Jesus to help you meet the Holy Spirit in a way you have not yet encountered.  And see if that makes a difference in your need for "more."  I believe it will!

There is a strong move today by believers on both sides of the aisle to make certain "holy demands" hoping the "other side" finally comes to their senses.  We all know the debates. (ugh!).  I laugh sometimes at how those who scream to love one another seem to lose that sentiment themselves!  "Love one another you assholes!"  It boggles my mind, to be honest.  But - that's where people are at and life is messy.  I truly believe in my heart that if more of us were willing or able to shift the focus from the HOW (the externals) to the WHO (the internal - the person of Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit) we would see the atmosphere change.  Because that is what is promised by Jesus.  "the Holy Spirit will come upon you and..." (what... oh, come on - you know....) 

So, if your holy "search engine" remains on - look first to the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. 

WORSHIP FOCUS

 

When I really want to - and I mean REALLY want to - I can remain focused on a project, or task, or goal.  This does not come easy for me. Not at all.  But, when I put my mind to it, I can definitely remain focused on a particular direction, dream or purpose.

As I write this, James Holzhauer is the current champion on Jeopardy with nearly $2 million dollars in winnings over about 25 days.  Unbelievable!  Clearly, James is a man who has spent his entire life focused on winning at gambling (he is always introduced as a professional gambler living in Las Vegas).  Certainly he has a photographic memory and his quick trigger finger assures him the win of the buzzer nearly every single time.  The man is focused.

There are those who have told me (or I've read articles about this) that they are easily distracted during the worship service by things like the timing of the slides, the pitchy voice of the singer, a wrong word sung, a baby crying, the color of the walls, the service running a few minutes over an hour and various other "distractions."  I feel very sorry for these people.  I'm not really judging their connection to God, or, at least, that's not my intention.  But I do know that, for me, all of those things (and a long list of other "distractions") long ago left me as I enter into a worship service.  And, for me, it all comes down to focus.

For me, the focus of my gathering with other Christ followers has nothing to do with song styles, room color, or the clock.  It just doesn't.  Several years ago I came to a place of understanding that worship is never about me or my wants and needs.  It is all (and only) about responding fully to the God of all creation, through Jesus in the power of the Holy Spirit.  That is my "worship focus."  And that focus remains constant regardless of music styles, room décor and other excuses people use for choosing to not worship God.  

I'm in good company.

The disciples lost focus and fell asleep.

The disciples lost focus and tried to instruct Jesus what to teach on.

The disciples lost focus and denied Jesus.

The disciples lost focus and - - - 

I think the key for me, and for all of us, is to flip the Worship Switch in our brains and hearts.  We need to choose to recognize who Jesus is, what he accomplished on the cross and through his resurrection, and then focus on that reality as we gather for worship.  

I wish those distractions I mentioned earlier were the only ones to deal with because those are the easy ones to blame.  But what about modern worship trends?  If we find ourselves more eager to sing a particular song by a particular worship celebrity because it makes us feel good - than we are to simply fall humbly to our knees and worship Jesus then, sad to say, that is also a distraction that has caused us to lose our focus on Who it is we are worshiping.  (That's called idolatry, by the way.) 

I want to worship Jesus with the same level of focus James Holzhauer has standing behind his Jeopardy contestant position.  

Let's choose to always focus on Jesus when we gather for worship.