CharisNotes (GraceNotes)

A Moment in Time and Space, Part 2

2011-06-28T05:44:00.000-07:00

If you came here because today as a result of my recent article for the ABC Messenger, congratulations! (For the rest of you, you might want to read this linked article first.) Below are the lyrics for the songs we will be singing this Sunday at Altadena Baptist Church. For those who will be worshipping with us this weekend, please feel free to read them once or meditate upon the lyrics throughout the week. (For the rest of you, this might not be the blog entry you're looking for. You can go about your business... move along.)

You can also download the lyrics through this link.

******
HOW GOOD AND PLEASANT

Tommy Walker

How good and pleasant it is when we dwell together in unity

And praise the Lord, praise the Lord!

How good and pleasant it is when we dwell together in unity

And praise the Lord, praise the Lord!

Praise the Lord! Praise the Lord!

Showers of blessing, showers they fall;

When we love and live in unity, when we lift one voice, loud and strong!

*****

EVERYDAY

Joel Houston

What to say, Lord, it’s You who gave me life,

And I can’t explain just how much you mean to me;

Now that You have saved me, Lord, I give all that I am to You,

That everyday I can be a light that shines Your name!

Everyday, Lord, I’ll learn to stand upon Your Word,

And I pray that I, that I might come to know You more;

That You would guide me in ev’ry single step I take,

That everyday I can be a light unto the world!

Everyday it’s You I’ll live for, everyday I’ll follow after You;

Everyday I’ll walk with You, my Lord!

It’s You I live for everyday, it’s You I live for everyday,

It’s You I live for everyday!

*****

THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT

Bill Fiala

I love You, Lord, with all my soul,

With all my mind, with all my strength.

I love You, Lord, with all my heart,

With all I am for who You are.

Because You loved me first, I love You, Lord.

*****

HOW DEEP THE FATHER’S LOVE FOR US
Stuart Townend

How deep the Father's love for us, how vast beyond all measure,

That He should give His only Son to make a wretch His treasure.
How great the pain of searing loss; the Father turns His face away,
As wounds which mar the Chosen One bring many sons to glory.

Behold, the man upon a cross, my sin upon His shoulders;

Ashamed, I hear my mocking voice call out among the scoffers.
It was my sin that held Him there until it was accomplished;
His dying breath has brought me life—I know that it is finished.

I will not boast in anything, bo gifts, no power, no wisdom;

But I will boast in Jesus Christ: His death and resurrection.
Why should I gain from His reward? I cannot give an answer;
But this I know with all my heart: His wounds have paid my ransom.

*****

CENTER OF MY JOY
Gloria Gaither, Richard Smallwood, and William J. Gaither

Jesus, You're the center of my joy.

All that's good and perfect comes from You.
You're the heart of my contentment, hope for all I do;
Jesus, You're the center of my joy.

When I've lost my direction, You're the compass for my way;

You're the fire and light when nights are long and cold.
In sadness You are the laughter that shatters all my fears;
When I'm all alone, Your hand is there to hold.

You are why I find pleasure in the simple things of life,
You're the music in the meadows and the streams;
The voices of the children, my fam'ly and my home,
You're the source and finish of my highest dreams.

Jesus, You're the center of my joy.

All that's good and perfect comes from You.
You're the heart of my contentment, hope for all I do;

Jesus… You are… the center… of my joy…

© 1987 William J. Gaither, Inc. | Century Oak Publishing Group | Richwood Music ARR UBP of Gaither Copyright Management | (Admin. by MCS Music America, Inc.) | (Admin. by MCS Music America, Inc.) CCLI License No. 67437.

*****
NEARER, MY GOD, TO THEE
Text: Sarah F. Adams
Music: Lowell Mason

Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee!

E’en though it be a cross that raiseth me;
Still all my song shall be, nearer my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee.

Though like the wanderer, the sun gone down,

Darkness be over me, my rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I’d be nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee.

There let the way appear steps unto heav’n,

All that Thou sendeth me in mercy giv’n;
Angels to beckon me nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee.

Then, with my waking thoughts bright with Thy praise,

Out of my stony griefs, Bethel I’ll raise;
So by my woes to be nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee, nearer to Thee.

Public Domain

*****

THE WONDERFUL CROSS

Original music based on a Gregorian chant; arranged by Lowell Mason, original lyrics by Isaac Watts
Arrangement by Jesse Reeves and Chris Tomlin; refrain lyrics by Chris Tomlin and J.D. Walt

When I survey the wondrous cross

On which the Prince of Glory died
My richest gain I count but loss
And pour contempt on all my pride

See from his head, his hands, his feet

Sorrow and love flow mingled down
Did e’er such love and sorrow meet
Or thorns compose so rich a crown

O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross

Bids me come and die and find that I may truly live

O the wonderful cross, O the wonderful cross

All who gather here by grace draw near and bless your name

Were the whole realm of nature mine

That were an offering far too small
Love so amazing, so divine
Demands my soul, my life, my all

STATIONS mentioned in local Altadena blog

2011-04-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

A local blog for the city of Altadena genorously posted an article regarding our Good Friday service. You can read it by clicking here.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-17T19:09:00.000-08:00

Like many others, Shanti and I are using the Internet to send out our Christmas greetings this year. (Why not, it's FREE!) Anyway, we invite you to click here for your viewing/downloading/printing pleasure.

May the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, the love of God the Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit bless you richly in the coming new year.

Advent

2009-12-02T14:41:00.001-08:00

We were blessed this last Sunday to have a few of our church members share their artistic talents as we entered the Advent season. My friend (and fellow band member) Tim read a poem he had written, and another friend, Matt, provided a series of realtime drawings that were inspired by Tim's poem. We had a videocamera capture Matt sketching out the drawings as the poem progressed, and I provided music inspired by both the poem and the drawings.

I want to post more about how this all worked and how it impacted our corporate worship, but in the meantime, you can read the poem and see the drawings here.

Even More Easter Musings

2009-04-23T12:18:00.000-07:00

For a nice article by Bono regarding Easter and other things...

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/04/19/opinion/19bono.html?_r=1

More Easter Musings

2009-04-12T18:19:00.000-07:00

Dr. Mouw, the president of Fuller Seminary, has a great little blurb about Easter on Fuller's website:

http://www.fuller.edu/news-and-events/home-features/easter-mouw.aspx

Let us proclaim the Resurrection boldly and unabashedly!

Christ Jesus is risen!

2009-04-11T21:46:00.000-07:00

He is risen indeed! May the joy of the resurrection continue to resonate in our lives long after the lilies, eggs and brunches are gone.

Happy Easter, everyone!

Great Friday

2009-04-11T08:07:00.000-07:00

Every year, our church pastors normally participate in community and/or ecumenical Good Friday services. However, holding a Good Friday service of our own is not usually part of our tradition during the Easter season. Enter the worship leader filled with ideas from seminary... Pastor George, Pastor Connie and I met together and planned a service that would hopefully be true to our congregation, but also a chance to stretch ourselves in worship. We ended coming up with a unique blend of art, music, scripture, readings, confession and prayer that really seemed to work well.

Though the content of the service was a blessing, the greater blessing was the high attendance that we enjoyed for this "inaugural" Good Friday service. I'm reminded of how blessed I am to work with a congregation that puts its trust in its leadership, even when the road ahead might be unknown or unfamiliar. This has been the kind of group I have had the honor of serving for so long, and am continually thankful to God for my Christian brothers and sisters at ABC.

Leading Worship In Spirit and Truth, Part 3

2009-04-03T07:51:00.001-07:00

THE WORSHIP LEADER’S POSITION AS MENTOR

As mentioned earlier, today’s worship leaders have the opportunity to engage in discipling others in their own personal worship journeys. This can be extended to include the opportunity to mentor others, particularly those on one’s worship team. This allows others the chance to grow in understanding and experience regarding how to effectively lead. British composer Stuart Townend spent his time in university under the mentorship of fellow worship leader Dave Fellingham. Townend speaks about how influential Fellingham was in his development as a worship leader:

"Dave taught me by example. I watched him as he led worship, as he preached and taught, as he moved in the prophetic. I learned more than information from him. I saw the man at close quarters – his maturity and security in God, the way he dealt with people, his pastor’s heart, his boldness to step out in the prophetic, and above all his passion for Jesus. It stirred me to seek God for those kinds of qualities for myself…without doubt Dave has been the greatest spiritual influence on my adult life—but only because he was willing to have me alongside him, observing him at close range, speaking into my life, and then lovingly pushing me out of the nest when it was time for me to use my own wings."[1]

Casey Corum also highlights the responsibility leaders have in mentoring others, not only those on the worship team, but also those in the congregation: “It is important for all of us to have examples to follow; to have people like us who have gone before us to encourage our own journey in the Lord.”[2]

THE WORSHIP LEADER’S WITNESS AS A LIVING EXAMPLE

Corum’s ideas on mentoring remind us of a principle important not only to worship leaders, but any individual entrusted in the church with leadership responsibilities: the need to demonstrate a humble yet committed walk with Christ in everyday life. Just as pastors are expected to model Christian character and the fruit of the Spirit in a way that inspires others, so should the worship leader conduct themselves accordingly. Recognized worship leader Matt Redman touches on the importance of lifestyle witness:

"We talk a lot about Spirit-led worship, but if we truly want to be led by the Holy Spirit, we need to make sure we’re keeping in step with Him in our everyday lives. As a worship leader this is a challenging and even scary thought. I need to make sure that I’m making my life an appropriate dwelling place for Him."[3]

American worship leader Tim Hughes also values the significance of our daily walk with God: “As a worship leader it is so important that we are constantly seeking God’s will and concerning ourselves with what the Father is doing.”[4]

Paul Oakley speaks of the direct connection between one’s personal spiritual life and their effectiveness as a worship leader: “The key thing for me is to maintain an intimate walk with God, with all the challenges of a busy life. You want to stretch yourself musically, you might want to try and write songs and introduce your own songs, but underneath all that you've got to work hard at keeping intimate with God, because that's where it all comes from.”[5]

This same idea is echoed by Canadian Vineyard worship leader Dan Wilt:

"Christ-like character is central to the worship leader's calling because our heart attitudes, on such a visible leadership platform, eventually influence every member of the congregation or group that we lead. We disciple not just by “how we are” as a worship leader, but more concretely by “who we are” as a worship leader. The audible music and notes are not the only song we are singing. Lead worship from the foundation of a life that, both privately and publicly, resounds with love, obedience and honor toward Jesus. Your strongest leadership instrument will become the sound of your life, and your worship leadership will manifest the favor and strength that only God can give."[6]

SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION

The considerations and principles that need to guide the church worship leaders of the 21st century are more complex than the responsibilities of the choir directors and/or song leaders of the 20th century. The role of a worship leader is not just logistical or musical in nature, but pastoral in their leadership of church staff, volunteers, and the congregation. A pastoral mindset guides a worship leader as their choices of music and admonishment point to God rather than oneself. A solid biblical and theological framework can maximize a worship leader’s ability to effectively and holistically spread the gospel. Solid leadership also allows for opportunities for discipleship and mentoring. Finally, a worship leader recognizes the call by God for all leaders to model Christian character consistent with the content of the message being sung and preached during weekly services. In this time of significant transition for Western culture and the Church universal, worship leaders find themselves at the forefront of demonstrating how life in Christ, expressed corporately in worship and individually through our daily interaction with each other, is highly relevant in an age where spirituality is valued but Christianity is held by the world as irrelevant or politically suspect. Future generations will look back and examine how the Church adjusted to reach the postmodern world of the 21st century. May we be good stewards of the gifts God has given us and the Spirit that equips us to do great things in His name.

ENDNOTES:
[1] Stuart Townend, “Journey Into Worship”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218139; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.
[2] Corum.
[3] Matt Redman, The Unquenchable Worshipper (Ventura: Regal Books, 2001). Excerpt also available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218140; accessed 17 November 2006.
[4] Tim Hughes, “First Service”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218147; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.
[5] Interview with Paul Oakley, “Intimacy With God: The Key to Paul’s Success”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218120; accessed 17 November 2006.
[6] Dan Wilt, “The Sound of Your Life: Character and the Worship Leader”; available from http://www.insideworship.com/resources/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2237&Itemid=2; accessed 17 November 2006.

Leading Worship in Spirit and Truth, Part 2

2009-04-03T07:46:00.000-07:00

THE WORSHIP LEADER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO POINT TO GOD (not “ME”)

Much discussion has been made over the distinction between church music that is sung to God (or about God) and songs about our relationship with God. Since its inception, modern praise and worship music has often been criticized for being overly abundant with lyrics that are relational in nature. Yet more and more worship leaders and composers in the last half-decade are speaking out regarding the need for more songs focusing on God and his attributes to be written and sung. Mike Pilavachi, pastor of the UK Soul Survivor movement, asks: “How many songs do we sing that are just about God and do not (emphasis added) bring us into the story? How often is God not only the object but also the center of our worship? I am sure we need to sing more songs that praise Him for who He is, irrespective of what He has done for us.”[1] Louie Giglio, leader of the Passion youth worship movement, echoes Pilavachi’s sentiments: “So if you want a quick glimpse into how small you are (in relation to the whole of creation) as a leader, take note of which pronouns consume you: ‘His,’ ‘He’ and ‘Yours"; or ‘I,’ ‘me’ and ‘mine.’”[2]

Sally Morgenthaler, author of Worship Evangelism, speaks of her own journey as a worship leader and planner, and how she has come to recognize the need to put primary focus during worship on vertical communion with God rather than horizontal reflection:

"As a young worship leader, I focused on creating worship experiences, on making sure people felt like they’d met God before they left. As a worship planner, I still ask myself the question, how are people going to encounter God in this time of worship? But increasingly, I’m focusing on the God of our experience, not the experience itself. The reason for this is that it’s entirely possible to feel close to God without really focusing on who He is. It’s entirely possible to work ourselves into a worship euphoria without distinguishing between god generic and God incarnate. And in this age of spiritual pluralism, that difference is pivotal."[3]

THE WORSHIP LEADER’S NEED FOR A SOLID BIBLICAL FOUNDATION

One of the key reasons I chose to attend seminary was because I believe that effective worship leading is greatly enhanced with solid biblical teaching at a level that can best be provided through seminary training. If worship leaders are truly taking a larger role in the life of the church and their position during the weekly service, a well-developed theological and biblical groundwork needs to be in place to guide their decisions in music selections as well as their leadership towards others. A casual understanding of biblical truths and/or an incomplete comprehension of theological issues (especially when facing a congregation that potentially brings with them a myriad of experiences, opinions and perspectives) can hinder a worship leader’s ability to best minister to their congregation. British recording artist and worship leader Vicky Beeching addresses this very issue when reflecting on her theological training:

"I chose to study Theology with the aim of going into full time worship ministry afterwards. I always hoped that it would have a good affect on my song writing and worship leading, and it did. My lyric writing improved as I got to know the Bible in more depth, and I could be sure that I wasn’t writing heresy! It also taught me a lot about church history, and biblical interpretation which has been useful in my teaching and seminars. Parts of the course were challenging, as some views taught at Oxford were more liberal than my own beliefs. But I learned to only take on board the things that sat right with me. Overall it was a great experience, and I came away with a rounded view of what people think of Christianity and an even stronger commitment to my own beliefs."[4]

ENDNOTES:
[1] Mike Pilavachi, “God Centered”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218176; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.
[2] Louie Giglio, “Little Leaders”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218191; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.
[3] Graham Kendrick, Mike Pilavachi, and Sally Morgenthaler, “The One Thing”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218192; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.
[4] Interview with Vicki Beeching, “A New Voice From England”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=260103; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006

Back To the Blog Redux

2009-04-02T08:28:00.001-07:00

Yeah, yeah, I know. Let's see if I can keep current THIS time...

Back to the Blog

2007-09-04T15:59:00.001-07:00

For the vast multitudes who have missed me while I've been gone...

I'm back.

I suspect that the part of my brain that remained committed to maintaining this blog decided to shut down once finals were over at Fuller last June. Not that I haven't had any strong thoughts regarding worship since then... I just plain forgot to make it over to this here web page.

As previously hinted, some significant things have developed that have impacted me as a worship leader...

1) ATTRITION
At church, we've struggled with some significant losses on our worship team over the last few months. Back around Easter time, we had the luxury of multiple individuals who could fill in playing most instruments (except, naturally, PIANO) in our rotation. As of now, we basically have one bass guitarist, one rhythm guitarist, and one "switch-hitter". (We were down to one drummer again during the summer, but are gratefully not only back up to two, but three!) Not only am I grateful for the past blessings of a large rotation, but I am looking forward to how God will continue to provide in the coming month. (Translation for those who don't speak Church: "I miss our old friends, but God hasn't let us down yet.")

The loss of worship team members has allowed for some unexpected creativity in putting together weekly teams. We've had some strong Sundays with vocals stepping up a notch; we've had a few fun almost "unplugged" services; I even got to have fun by playing bass on a few tunes a month ago. (I don't know how fun THAT was for the congregation, though.) And I've enjoyed watching the talents of those "who remain" being stretched and challenged.

2) OPPORTUNITY
I find myself this fall with an additional opportunity to grow as a worship leader: I've been chosen as one of six "chapel interns" for Fuller Seminary during the 2007-08 year. The six of us will work together with faculty and staff to plan and coordinate the weekly chapel services held each Wednesday on campus.

Last Thursday, I attended an all-day retreat for the six of us, along with our supervisor, Ed Willmington, and the current director of chapel, Doug Nason. During the last hour of our retreat, we discussed the first four or five chapels of the school year and did some brainstorming. After almost a decade of planning worship services essentially on my own, it was both refreshing and disconcerting to have to plan and brainstorm in a committee. Definitely a positive experience, but a very new one as well.

More to come...

Leading Worship in Spirit and Truth, Part 1

2007-05-16T15:17:00.000-07:00

THE WORSHIP LEADER’S ROLE AS A PASTORAL ROLE

Disappearing are the days where the person in charge of church music simply picked good songs, clocked in and out for rehearsals on Wednesday evenings, and sat politely on Sunday mornings until the various songs were performed. For churches that employ modern worship music, the leaders find themselves much more integrated into the life of the worship service. They are actively engaged not only with the conducting the music being played on the stage, but with bringing the congregation along into the act of corporate worship. A worship leader must lead with insight and compassion, recognizing their role as an integral part of the ministry to the congregation. British worship leader Noel Richards says, “A worship leader does need to lead with a pastor’s heart. God is passionately in love with us—whether we respond to Him or not. He loves His Church and we need to love those who we are trying to lead—even though at times we get frustrated with the lack of response.”[1] Casey Corum, worship pastor and director of production for Vineyard Music USA, elaborates: “We must lead (worship leaders) all the way to a pastoral love for the church; loving and serving people through their gifts.”[2]

Today’s popular worship leaders suggest that many of the roles associated with head pastors are also the responsibility of worship leaders. Vineyard worship leader Danny Daniels speaks of how the worship leader often acts as intercessor on behalf of the congregation:

"When we lead people in worship, we represent God to his people, and the people of God. This is the basic function of the priesthood. As such, a significant part of leading worship is seeking God on behalf of ourselves and the people. Unless he anoints the songs we sing, inhabits our praises and touches us in return as we seek him, we will not have worshipped him effectively. When we pray that these things might be accomplished, we are praying according to his will, and we can be confident of the Spirit leading us into a meaningful worship experience."[3]

Chris Tomlin further suggests that discipling others in the congregation should be a priority for worship leaders: “Always remember that you are responsible to the people you lead. God has placed you there to disciple. Do not be discouraged if they are not where you are spiritually, but continue to love them and lead them by example. This brings glory to God.”[4]

Viewing the role of worship leader as a pastoral role gives proper context and understanding for his or her duties, expectations and directives. Seen by the congregation as not only a leader of music, but as one of the leaders within the church, worship leaders have an awesome responsibility to maintain.

ENDNOTES:
[1] Noel Richards, “Journey Into Worship”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218162; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.

[2] Casey Corum, “Caring for Creatives”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=259977; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.

[3] Danny Daniels, “The Sound of Your Life: Character and the Worship Leader”; available from http://www.insideworship.com/resources/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2237&Itemid=2; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.

[4] Matt Redman (interviewer), “Chris Tomlin”; available from http://www.worshiptogether.com/features/article.aspx?iid=218185; Internet; accessed 17 November 2006.

Leading Worship in Spirit and Truth (Introduction)

2007-05-16T14:55:00.000-07:00

Last fall, I had to write a paper about worship leading and some of the thoughts future and emerging leaders should consider. I enjoyed writing the paper, but since it was assignment, I promptly forgot all about it when the term was over... until a friend recently mentioned that she had read it and appreciated the ideas I wrote about. (Thanks, Amanda!)

Sooo... I thought I'd share those same thoughts in this blog. There are five themes I explored regarding the role and responsibilty of today's worship leaders, drawn from the examples suggested by some of today's prominent worship leaders around the world. I'll start by re-printing the introduction in this post, and later postings will look at each of those five themes. Hope this is encouraging and helpful not only to worship leaders, but to congregants who recognize the growing role that worship leaders play in today's churches!

******
In the past twenty years, an increasing number of Western churches have seen the rise of a new role in church leadership: that of the worship leader. The shift for many congregations from traditional forms of music (including hymns and choral music) to modern choruses (often labeled as “praise and worship” music) has resulted in an increase of visibility, responsibility and accountability for those responsible for church music. In terms of visibility, many worship leaders spend as much time (if not more) during a weekly service in front of a congregation as the preaching pastor. Secondly, worship leaders carry the responsibility of maintaining regular dialogue with the pastors, coordinating with audio/visual technicians, and overseeing other musicians. Finally, worship leaders—like other church leaders—need to be accountable to the church body in regards to their interactions with others, along with how their personal walks with the Lord impact the life of the church.

Numerous leaders among the modern worship movement from the United States and the United Kingdom have spoken out about their concerns and values concerning the demands that press upon today’s worship leaders. After an examination of many of their interviews and articles from the last several years, some recurring themes emerge regarding their suggestions to fellow worship leaders. In future posts, I will attempt to discuss five such principles, principles that deal less with the technical nature of music and more in terms of leadership style, spiritual formation and wisdom in decision-making.

1. THE WORSHIP LEADER’S ROLE AS A PASTORAL ROLE
2. THE WORSHIP LEADER’S RESPONSIBILITY TO POINT TO GOD (not “ME”)
3. THE WORSHIP LEADER’S NEED FOR A SOLID BIBLICAL FOUNDATION
4. THE WORSHIP LEADER’S POSITION AS MENTOR
5. THE WORSHIP LEADER’S WITNESS AS A LIVING EXAMPLE

**************
Thanks for reading! More to come...

All By Myself

2007-05-16T14:43:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to lead worship on a Sunday morning on my own. Just me, myself and I. No other vocalists, no guitars or drums, not even the comfort of a steady set of bongos. Just me and the piano for the entire service.

Initially, I knew that the Sunday in question was a week where many members of the worship team were going to be unavailable (out of town or otherwise committed to something else) that day. If I wanted to, I could have conjured up a person or two to help me out. But as I began planning the order of service for that Sunday, I decided that I would keep the schedule as it was and try it out by myself for a change. I've had the opportunity to stretch myself as a worship leader in the last year by experimenting with different formats (like that quasi-liturgy we did for Palm Sunday, which went very well, by the way) and different set-ups than the same ol' thing every week. Here was another chance to try something new.

Now, having said that, I have to admit that I don't really like leading all by myself. Of course, I did it for several years when I led chapel services at a Christian elementary school, but that was a very different audience with a different set of songs (mostly upbeat, "happy-clappy" stuff). But despite having grown up in the midst of my congregation and knowing them fairly well, it was still nervewracking. One of the beautiful things about being a piano player--and leading from the piano--is that there's a level of comfort and protection that you feel, sitting behind a large, black, blocky instrument several hundred pounds in weight. Feeling more confident as a pianist than a vocalist, it's easy to "hide" behind the keyboard while playing. Even though I'm the lead vocalist in leading worship, other vocalists singing helps me not feel so... well, exposed.

Fears aside, I went ahead and led by myself on the Sunday in question. And it went well, by most accounts. And the nerves disappeared, for the most part. (Of course, being the one who also picks the songs, it was easy to compensate by choosing songs that I felt strongest as singer and pianist.) I'm fine if the opportunity doesn't come around again for a loooong time, but I'm grateful for the chance I had to step up.

Life, Death, New Life

2007-04-09T22:32:00.000-07:00

Easter is the celebration of new life. Plenty of poignant reminders of the cycle of life, death, and new life seem to surround me this year as I reflect on the past few weeks.

Obviously, we look first to the example of what we celebrate on Easter morning, not to mention every Sunday morning that we gather together as church communities around the world. Christ experienced the reality of human death, and He demonstrated the victory over that same death on the third day.

In the midst of celebrating that very victory at church this past Easter Sunday, our congregation rejoiced in seeing and hearing our brother Scott during prayer time. He's the one I mentioned in a previous prayer request. Just under two weeks ago, we were considering the very real possibility that Scott would be going home to be with God. Evidently, God had other things in mind, as Scott was released from the hospital last Thursday. He even surprised us by stopping by at a party held at our house Saturday night. Talk about a great Easter illustration.

This past week also allowed me to reflect on resurrection from a second, contrasting perspective. April 1 was the birthday of my father, who passed away in 2003. Holidays and anniversaries (such as birthdays) are among the times when you miss a loved one the most after they've passed away. Easter also reminds us that we have not only a hope, but a firm conviction that death is not the end of the story for us. Jesus' promise of eternal life reminds me that I will be reunited with my father again someday, as we will both rejoice together in the presence of our Heavenly Father.

And in the midst of all of the talk of mortality, my best friend from childhood is pregnant with her second child while preparing to celebrate the third birthday of her first child (better remember to go shopping this week). Though we are not related by blood, I can't help but feel immense happiness whenever I hear little Jacob call me "Uncle Glenn." The joy of new life abounds.

When I reflect back on Easter 2007, I might have trouble remembering what songs we sang, or what we had for Easter dinner (which was quite delicious, thank you). I will remember that God chose to bless me with amazing lessons that helped bring out the true joy and Grace of the resurrection.

Christ is risen. He is risen indeed.

Remember Where You're From...

2007-03-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

(Taken from this week's church newsletter)

I’ve been at Altadena Baptist for almost 30 years now, but I haven’t been a card-carrying Baptist for my entire life. When my parents immigrated to the States from the Philippines in the late 1960’s, their only church experience was that of the Catholic Church (like all good Filipinos). I was never confirmed in the Church, but I still have strong memories of attending Mass and experiencing the care and compassion of various priests and nuns at some of the Catholic schools I attended in primary school.

It was in 1979 when my father and I were first introduced to Altadena Baptist Church. I remember my dad talking about how it was a major adjustment getting used to an entirely different way of worshiping on a Sunday morning. All he had learned about corporate worship had been shaped by over 40 years of being a Catholic, and it took him quite a while to adjust to what he considered “acceptable” church behavior. The hymns, prayers, and sermon styles at ABC were a far cry from the liturgies and homilies he was used to. (I even have a faint memory of one of our first communion experiences at ABC, with my dad awkwardly holding the cup of juice and having no idea what to do.) However, in the final years of his life, though he wasn’t able to attend our church regularly due to issues of health and transportation, he considered ABC his church home—the place where he felt most comfortable spending time with God on a Sunday morning, and the place where he felt truly accepted by a body of believers, regardless of past mistakes or personal shortcomings.

We talk often about the ethnic and cultural diversity that makes up our congregation at ABC, but we should also remember that the members of our congregation come from a wide range of denominational experiences. We have had Presbyterians and Pentecostals, Anglicans and Foursquares (Foursquarians?), Quakers and non-denominationals among our midst. People representing the three main branches of Christianity—Catholicism, Protestantism, and Orthodoxy—have descended upon our little church and made it their spiritual home of the years. Many of those individuals have selflessly set aside their former practices or ideas about church, the things that have made them feel “comfortable” in the past, in order to become an active part of our diverse community here at ABC. Even those who have been members of this church for several years have experienced a similar journey as our understanding of worship has grown and evolved over the past few decades.

Our rich denominational background continues to guide us in the Worship Department in our examination of how we best express ourselves corporately in worship. Of course, it’s impossible to acknowledge over one hundred different experiences of church life from Sunday to Sunday. But we continually try to be aware of the rich heritage of worship experiences among our church family, as well as listening to how God desires us to demonstrate His love and Gospel to future generations. It continues to be a work in process; something that mirrors the process that God’s Spirit works in each of our lives, always in continual transformation as we seek to live according to His will and His ways.

For our Palm Sunday service this coming Sunday, we will experience worship through a template unfamiliar to some of us—worship through a liturgy. A liturgy is a pre-determined set of readings and prayers found in denominations such as the Episcopal or Catholic church. This liturgy will be accented with other congregational activities that will express the sentiments of Holy Week, and will climax with the Celebration of the Lord’s Supper (done in the traditional “ABC” style). It is an amalgamation of age-old church tradition and contemporary expression. It will be a bit of a stretch for most of us, but will hopefully also be a good exercise of recognizing some of Christianity’s history (with a slightly post-modern spin). Most of all, it will allow us to focus on the solemn reality of the events leading up to Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. We invite you to visit with us this Sunday at Altadena Baptist, and we hope you would do so with open minds and open hearts as we thank God for His mercy and the repentance we receive from Him through his Son, Jesus Christ.

To Tell the Truth (a lesson in Grace, humility, and/or the lack thereof)

2007-03-12T12:37:00.000-07:00

I hope seminary doesn't make me into a jerk.

My last post talked about my chance to attend a few different worship services last weekend. Well, the first one I went to was a place where several good friends attend. Before the service started, I was looking through the bulletin/handout, and read a statement that just didn't sound theologically sound--especially after having taken a course regarding the same topic last quarter. When two good friends came up to my wife and me to ask my opinion about the quotes in the flyer, I clearly barked out my disapproval regarding the aforementioned statement. After an awkward silence, one of my friends told me that the person who prepared the bulletin was well meaning, but didn't have the same theological training I was currently getting. I just shrugged my shoulders, and as the band started into the first song, both friends walked back to their seats.

It took my amazingly wise and perceptive wife to call me out later that evening, telling me that what I said wasn't really appropriate.

"But I'm right, aren't I?" I said in defense.

"Probably, but that certainly wasn't the right time or the right way to say what you said," she calmly answered.

I shrugged my shoulders again and tried to focus on the song being played by the band. But it sunk in during the next few minutes... even if I was correct about my observation about the bulletin,I had absolutely no tact or grace in how I spoke to my friends, my sisters in Christ.

Perhaps as God's way of putting an exclamation point on this whole lesson in humility, the person who likely was hurt the most by my words came up to me and actually tried to apologize for reacting badly to my comments. I told her that the only one who needed to apologize was me, and I did so. We even ended up having a great discussion about the topic in question, and any fractures caused by my actions were quickly repaired.

Being at Fuller has been a fantastic experience; my time in this program has exceeded all of my expectations. I often feel that my brain cannot possibly absorb all that I've learned about myself, my God, and the world I hope to minister to in the futre. But instances like last Friday night haven't been unique lately. I feel led to be able to utilize what I'm learning in seminary, but I haven't quite found the balance of how to communicate truth tactfully or lovingly. At least, not all the time. I pray for more and more Grace each day, comforted by the fact that God is willing to give it. The last thing I want to do is become one of the very things that frustrates me about much of modern Western Christianity--one who thinks that dispensing truth means railroading over a person's place in their own journey. Who wants to receive a Message from a self-righteous Messenger?

God, grant us all wisdom and Grace as we share the truth of Your Word and of Your Love. May people see You when they witness our actions and words.

PS... Lord, had I mentioned lately how AWESOME my wife is? Thank You for such a wise and caring partner who isn't afraid to speak honestly (yet compassionately). :-)

In the Same Boat

2007-03-12T12:21:00.000-07:00

I had the opportunity to attend two other worship services besides my own this weekend. I spoke to the worship leader at the first church, and the director of media at the second. In both cases, there was dialog about the challenges and graces involved with watching volunteers coming and going over the course of time. Though both churches were extremely different than my own (the first being a small niche service geared towards those in substance recovery, and the second being essentially a megachurch), it was a comfort to hear that all of us in leadership positions deal with many of the same issues regarding getting team members to commit, to be consistent, etc. It was a good feeling to know that someone leading a church of thousands had something common with little ol' me and my itty bitty church on a corner in the foothills.

About five or six years ago, I toyed with the idea of trying to set up a network where local worship leaders could get together to allow time to unpack and process, to be themselves among others who understand the joys and pressures of leading a congregation. I never really got anything going with that (getting married does change your prioritites!), but recent events, along with my time at Fuller these past two years, is bringing the idea to the surface again. Lead pastors often have these kinds of networks, it seems that worship leaders should, too! Hmm, I'll have to let this simmer some more... any ideas out there?

Chapel Thoughts

2007-03-07T11:11:00.000-08:00

This morning, I was part of the worship team for Chapel at Fuller. Here are some quick reflections...

1. For someone like me who serves in a leading capacity every week, it's nice once in a while to step back and be part of the team for a change. It was fun to stand a bit more in the background and just do as you're told. (All the joys of playing with little or none of the responsibility. Gotta love it.)

2. It's also fun to stretch yourself from time to time and get out of your comfort zone. I played bass guitar, which I seldom do but can fake my way through (yay for years of music theory!). It also helps me to appreciate the focus that bass players have. Even though it may be only one note at a time, there's a lot of concentration that goes into that instrument.

3. When playing bass guitar, be sure to know exactly where your cord is, so as not to step on it (and subsequently disconnect said bass guitar) in the middle of an upbeat song. For those of you who have seen me nearly fall off of the stage when directing choir, this is basically the instrumental version of that. I started getting into an upbeat song, and then wondered why the sound from the bass suddenly dropped out...

Just about everyone that was participating in this small group (about 5-6 of us) are or were worship leaders, so there was a nice chemistry going, as well as a very professional atmosphere. I even learned a new term this week that will come in handy for my own rehearsals at church!

These are the kinds of experiences that drew me to enroll at Fuller--opportunities to connect, serve and learn simultaneously. Though I'm quite stressed out this week (last week of the quarter) and overwhelmed with tasks, this morning was a good break from the madness and a chance to bask in the renewal and joy that comes from offering praise to God.

Quiet Time, the Ironic Psalm, and the Peacock

2007-03-03T16:49:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a class this quarter at Fuller which examines the spirituality of Christian author Henri Nouwen. One of the assignments for this class was to engage in an individual half-day spiritual retreat. I decided to take advantage of one of our local botanical wonders: the Los Angeles County Arboretum. (It's a fantastic place, and not JUST because it's the location of the Fantasy Island House.)

One of the surprising lessons I learned from this assignment did not occur during my actual time during the retreat, but the days and hours leading up to it. Although my schedule for this quarter is more open than other quarters, I had the hardest time committing to a particular day to have my retreat. Even when the morning that I had finally chosen had come, I found myself making excuses and creating reasons why I should postpone yet again. When I finally got around to leaving the house to drive to the Arboretum, I spent some time in the car trying to analyze the reason for wanting to continually put this assignment off. I came to the conclusion that it was connected to a general struggle I’ve had for several months, where I have had little discipline in spending quality time alone with God. My personal devotional life and prayer life has been pretty lousy as of late, and I think that part of me was terrified of the idea of an entire morning committed to meditation and prayer!

As I pulled into the parking lot at the Arboretum, I began feeling very convicted and even guilty. It was then that the thought—or more likely, the Spirit—came to me: “Behold, I make all things new.” It seemed to go hand in hand with so much of what I’ve learned about Henri Nouwen this quarter: although fully engaged in ministry, he was also fully aware of his failings and brokenness. I sat in the car for several minutes, praying that God would give me the focus and courage to make the best of this morning, and guilt was soon replaced with hope.

Once I entered the Arboretum, I found a quiet area next to a stream and sat on a bench, where I spent most of the morning. At one point, I decided to open my Bible to a random passage, and found Psalm 106, which told of God’s love towards the Israelites; despite their continual failings and disregard for God, He ultimately continued to listen to their cries for help. (How appropriate!) I then spent time considering the journey God has taken me in the last three or four years in particular, as my ministry at church has grown in responsibility, as well as my time in seminary since the fall of 2005. I also took some pictures of the beautiful scenery around my bench, marveling at God’s creation and spending time in personal worship and praise.

I finished the morning doing some praying for guidance and strength of commitment as I slowly walked the grounds of the Arboretum. As I was finishing my silent prayer, one of the many peacocks that inhabit the area approached me. Just as I walked passed it, I turned to see that it had unfurled its feathers to display its legendary beauty. For me, it was an unexpected parable of how God knows us so well and reveals Himself not only in His time, but also at times when we are best receptive to the particular message He has for us. On this day, I was a better listener to hear about how God forgives and continues to desire to show Himself to us. I thank the peacock for being the means to realize such a great truth about our great God.

Waiting

2007-03-03T15:07:00.000-08:00

The following reading is from a emerging movement called Vaux, from the United Kingdom. It's really an Advent reading, but it still sounds good in the middle of March (or anytime, for that matter). I'm hoping they wouldn't have minded my reprinting it here...

WAITING (Vaux, London, 1998)

As Sarah waited…
40 years for a son to fulfill God’s promise
We wait in hope for what we thought had been promised to us

As Moses waited…
40 years in the desert being prepared by God to lead his people
We wait for emptiness and humility; for bravado to wither

As Israel waited…
40 years in the desert, hungry, depressed, thirsting, unsure
We wait for things to move on and generations to pass

As the prophets waited…
1000 years of promises that God would raise up a Savior
We wait for things to change

As Mary waited…
9 months of her 14 years for the child of God
We feel the birth pangs yet fear for the child

As John the Baptist waited…
Scanning the crowds for the one whose sandals he would not be worthy to untie
We long for an experience of the Divine

As Jesus waited…
30 years of creeping time
40 days in the desert of temptation
3 years in the midst of misunderstanding
3 days in the depths of hell

So we wait for God’s time
Preparing the way

Our turn to toil on leveling mountains and straightening paths

Our turn to watch the time horizon

Our turn to pass on the hope—
the one who promised is faithful
and will come back

**********************
(Vaux was an Emerging Church movement of artists and individuals from south London. In 1998, they began meeting together on a monthly basis with the intention of expressing their Christian faith through the use of various media and other artistic expressions. Vaux disbanded in 2005 as its various members went forth to help enrich other faith communities throughout the United Kingdom and the world. For more about Vaux, go to www.vaux.net)

The Answer Is...

2007-03-03T14:50:00.000-08:00

(Originally written Summer 2005)

This morning, I found myself driving to the Sony Studios lot in Culver City, California to try out for the "Jeopardy!" syndicated game show.

Okay, I just read that last sentence and had a good laugh at myself. I really don't know what possessed me to try (besides the obvious prospect of telling my wife Shanti to pack her bags for a summer trip to see the beautiful sights of South Africa). However, something within me thought that years of yelling at the television set with correct answers qualified me as a viable contestant during the real thing. So I called the studios and set up an appointment for an audition date. Along with perhaps a hundred others, I sat in the dimmed soundstage where the show is taped and took a fifty question test of general knowledge questions, which had me feeling quite humiliated (not to mention dizzy) at the end of the experience. I remembered that Jennifer Garner was the star of "Alias" and "Daredevil", and I knew that Bogotá was the capital of Columbia, but I couldn't remember what measurement of energy started with the letter J, and certainly couldn't remember what vice‑president was charged with treason in the early 1800s. The diversity of categories was mind‑numbing, jumping back and forth from "French Artists" to "Hollywood Celebrities", from "19th Century Authors" to "R & B Legends", etc. The questions had my brain bouncing around faster than the sale of hot links during a fundraiser for Family Camp.

This evening, as "Jeopardy!" was blaring in the background, I found myself on the computer, planning and preparing for an upcoming Sunday worship service (one of my main responsibilities as my church's Director of Worship). Somewhere in the process of choosing songs and e‑mailing the church office, I began reflecting on a different kind of diversity: the diversity found within our corporate worship experience at Altadena Baptist. Everyone within our church and most who are familiar with our church are well aware of our ethnic and social diversity. Over the years, it has been one of our strongest assets, as well as one of our biggest challenges. Just as I heard the electronic fanfare of the "Daily Double" ringing in the background, I considered how our worship services were a reflection of that same diversity. The way I see it, our diversity in corporate worship has revealed itself, especially over the last decade, in three ways:

1) We demonstrate worship diversity in practice. The denominational backgrounds that our congregation come from are wide and varied, including Presbyterians, Catholics, Pentecostals, Salvationists, Quakers, and, yes, even Baptists. On any given Sunday, someone may come up to me after the service and express thanks for introducing a new song sung during worship (such as "King of Glory", a modern worship song written in the year 2000). Another person may be grateful that we included "Joyful, Joyful, We Adore Thee" (based on the original Beethoven chorus from his Ninth Symphony) as a congregational hymn, perhaps on the same day. One individual might be thankful for Amanda's beautiful sonata played on the oboe; another was really moved by Rob's "killer timbales solo". Organ, piano… bass guitar, harp… raising hands, kneeling down… sitting in quiet mediation, clapping enthusiastically… you get the idea. Although it is true that our music leans slightly towards the "contemporary" end of things, we never want to forget or ignore the rich resource of traditions and experiences represented within our congregation.

2) We demonstrate worship diversity in progress. We didn't get to this point all at once, to be sure. This evolution began almost a decade before I became a staff member of the church, as our church leaders sought to explore how to expand our thinking about how we view and execute our corporate worship. There were many different points of view (and more than a few disagreements) along the way, which is a natural occurrence when people sense the winds of change in the air. During the past few decades, scores of churches have split or dissolved in the face of such changes. But for the most part, our congregation stuck together where others might have fled. Instead of feeling the need to choose one or the other, we decided to listen to each other and be patient with each other, and God continues to bless us (despite ourselves!). Even recently we have shown how we are still "in progress", as we stretch ourselves yet again to embrace musical styles such as gospel and songs in Spanish and other languages.

3) We demonstrate worship diversity imperfectly. That sounds like bad news, but it simply means this: before we think we've got it all figured out at Altadena Baptist and we think we're the best thing since sliced bread, we need to think again. At the end of the day, we're still the same, imperfect, flawed humans we were at the beginning of the day. To me, it's actually a relief and a huge reason to praise God. He accepts us in spite of ourselves. In reality, the type of musical genre, the amount of liturgy or spontaneity, dunking or sprinkling (or neither)… all of this is secondary to the authenticity of our worship. Which, you must remember, will always be slightly clouded because of our own self‑interests and our natural tendency to mess up. But God, full of grace and mercy, accepts us and loves us unconditionally. It doesn't relieve us from the responsibility to offer Him our best; He deserves our best, and much more. But He understands that we're still figuring things out down here, including how we come together to worship Him as a church body.

By the way, I didn't pass the qualifying test to be on the show. But as I took the long walk from Soundstage 10 to the studio parking structure, I didn't feel embarrassed or ashamed that I wasn't going to be meeting Alex Trebek or getting the chance to say "I'll take Armenian Folk Dances for $2000". The experience of going to the audition was fun, exciting, and enriching. I came away appreciating the detailed process the producers undergo in developing several hundred shows each year. By the same token, it is not the shape or size or volume of our corporate worship that matters as much as our motives and our authenticity, while we acknowledge our God together in song, in prayer, and in fellowship.

Getting things rolling...

2007-01-18T15:06:00.000-08:00

Okay, so I set this blogspace up months ago, and have yet to start. I think I've been waiting for the appropriate inspiration for a super-profound first post. Well, that hasn't happened yet. So instead, I'm going to post some various articles I've written in the last few years, along with other random stuff. Maybe after getting some acutal paragraphs on this page, I'll be able to write... well, something. :-)

Welcome aboard. Enjoy the ride.
G