Issue 3
II
Timothy 1:6
"So I ask you to make full use of the gift God gave you..."
(CEV)
"Fan into flames the spiritual
gift God gave you..." (New Living Translation)*
Paul is writing to Timothy and encouraging
him to be faithful. What a great scripture with which to start the
singing/ringing year! We are directly told to use our gifts to the
full extent possible to reach people with the Good News of Jesus Christ.
How can we do this in our churches?
As professional musicians, we need
to hone our skills with classes, workshops, practice and study. Perhaps
we can learn a new style or begin to write our own music. Bible study
will help us in making good choices for our congregations.
As participants in the choir (whatever
the number and kind), we need to be dedicated to the program with
our attendance and attention to the leader. Rehearsal time is valuable
and is much more productive if everyone is there.
As congregational members, we need
to support the program with our own participation in hymns and sung
responses. Sing with gusto! Remember that God is listening and appreciates
our sacrifices of praise.
If we each work individually and
collectively to "fan the flame" of our own personal gifts,
there will be great things happening in our congregations. Our music
programs will be about worshipping God, praising the Lord, building
the body of Christ. Most importantly, we will be using our gift to
the fullest possible extent to give one of the greatest gifts to God
- praise!
Book Alert - "Blue Like Jazz"
by Donald Miller
Donald Miller's writing style immediately pulls
you into his reflections on his growth as a Christian. It is very
honest writing about love and redemption as he makes his way through
life. One of my favorite quotes from the book is "I think loving
Jesus is something you feel. Very difficult to get on paper, but it
is no less real, no less meaningful, no less beautiful." You
won't be able to put this one down.
Music Alert - "Come and Fill
Our Hearts"
This is a song from the Taize Community in France, known for short,
repetitive, contemplative singing. This song would make a wonderful
song to sing as the choir enters the sanctuary. It could start out
unison and move into four parts as the choir is gathered in their
seating area. A soloist could also sing it unaccompanied from a balcony
or the back of the church. The congregation could be encouraged to
join in when they feel comfortable. A solo flute or violin would add
a nice touch. Perhaps the choir director or organist could sing it
from the front. The possibilities are endless. This song can be found
in "Sacred Songs" (Liturgical Press) or "The Faith
We Sing" (Abingdon Press)
Upcoming events - Don't forget to
plan on the Annual meeting in October! We will have an interesting
time in the music workshop experimenting with various styles of music.
I hope to see you there.
One added thought : If you dream
alone, it will remain a dream. If you share your dream with others,
you will be on the way to creating reality. Share your dream with
others in your church and let them help you create a new thing!
Any comments, questions, suggestions
email me at fbwamusic@aol.com
Until next month,
Mary
* The New Living Translation is sold under the title
"Praise and Worship Study Bible" (Tyndale House Publishers).
This is a great tool for people who like added information and connections
between scripture and music. Mine is falling apart!
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