“They” say that music is the “universal language”. It’s interesting that something so universal” can also be so divisive. Each has their own individual musical tastes and preferences.
And then there’s worship music.
I’ve struggled with how to handle musicians in church. One notion says that church should completely be encouraging and provide a place where people can express their love for God, through music, publicly. Another notion says that “only the best will do” in church and so, that’s what should be presented.
I err towards that side, but overall, I still encourage people to “do their best”, even if they aren’t the most well trained.
But what to do when it’s bad? I mean, really bad…
I have found a fair amount of apathy amongst church musicians and vocalists. I haven’t nailed down why this is the case. But I have some thoughts. Perhaps it’s because it’s a “one and done” thing. Why spend the time to perfect the music of it’s all over in a morning? Perhaps it’s laziness? Again, why work hard for the one morning? It’s an excuse. We’re not “professional” musicians, so, why expect perfection?
What is perfection any way? And what constitutes professional? There are so many “levels” of musicianship. There are certainly “normal” church musicians who could easily do music for a living. And there are certainly professional paid musician who aren’t really that good…
Whatever the reason, it boils down to people unwilling to do their best for God. I’m not saying that they should rehearse 40 hours a week in preparation. But, not being prepared is, well, arrogant.
Why can’t the church have a honest discussion with these people? Are we afraid that people will be offended? Are we afraid to expose weakness? Are we afraid to admit weakness?
