Reminder

Here's a great reminder from Tommy Walker.

-Tim Covert

The Real Deal

I watched "The Passion of The Christ" after coming home from a Wednesday night service recently. Just me and the DVD. It's impossible to watch that film and remain unmoved. I was once again overwhelmed with the incredible suffering our Lord withstood during His brutal scourging. "Yet it was our weaknesses he carried; it was our sorrow that weighed him down. And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God, a punishment for his own sins! But he was pierced for our rebellion, crushed for our sins. He was beaten so we could be whole. He was whipped so we could be healed. All of us, like sheep, have strayed away. We have left God's path to follow our own. Yet the Lord laid on him the sins of us all." Isaiah 53:4-6 NLT. As I visited the hospitals today I saw both ends of the human life cycle. A child in infant ICU, born 1 pound 3 ounces at 24 weeks, fighting to grow. And a precious saint of the church battling cancer. In both cases, hope is an undeniable key. Both families trust in the Lord. They trust in His promises. They believe that Jesus suffered in their place for a reason. Why then is there still suffering on the earth? The answer lies in what Christ did for us. Jesus took the penalty for sin upon Himself. But we must still live under God's conditions placed upon this earth resulting from our fallen world. Death is a slippery variable in this life. It is inevitable. But God has promised He will heal. We don't understand it's timing and surely have not completely come to grips with how God chooses to heal. But one thing is certain, He does heal. And hope is intended to be a remaining constant (our mind set) when we place our trust in Him. I saw that hope today. If I could bottle what I've seen just in these two cases and give it away - I would. Like most churches we're preparing for Easter. Two performances of an Easter musical is our music department's attempt to reach our community with this hope. To give it away. This Easter, may God's very special promises become reality to as many as hear the message you declare. And our prayer is that every church would articulate the purpose of Jesus' incredible sacrifice clearly, with wonderful results. God bless you in your preparation.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Easter 2006

No, it can't be. Easter is only 6 weeks away? For those of us in Michigan 6 weeks is the difference between sub zero temperatures and flowers cautiously peering from the soil. Likewise, over that same time frame, the climate of churches working on Easter musicals will change almost as dramtically (so to speak). You probably began special rehearsals in January, but in March things get cranked up several notches. We begin practicing with everyone (speaking parts, choir and musicians) once a week for the last month. This has really helped tighten up our performances. Slowly but surely we're getting everyone to rehearsals. We pretty much have it engrained in everyone's mind (and calendar) that the last week before performances will be busy - so schedule as little as possible. Volunteers are an amazing resource. Called committed volunteers are even better! This year we've added a hospitality position to our Music Department to help those committed volunteers have a pleasant experience. Her function is to take care of the needs of people at practices (providing finger food, water and be my eyes and ears) We also have a person in charge of child care for our extra non-church night practices. Mom's and Dad's are much more willing to be involved next time around if their children are taken care of properly. Try not to keep the kids too late for evening practices. I try to get the kids out no later than 8-8:30pm and the adults 10pm. Sound and lighting techs have the listening cd for the musical. Don't dupe off copies, buy them! Hang in there! Have fun! Minister to your volunteers. And most importantly, minister to your community.
-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Why Sing?

"Singing with the spirit of the New Testament sense is singing in concert with the Holy Spirit whose task is focusing on Christ. The deliberate purpose of Chrisitian singing is to exert all the dynamic of this powerful expression to glorify God. Surely the Church does not lack for spiritual, spirited music to sing; but all too often it lacks spirit motivated, spiritual singers to join in the song." From the book Worship - Rediscovering the Missing Jewel by Ronald Allen and Gordon Borror. My heart is not focused on being critical of God's Church. I'm called to the role of an enabler. I know, becoming aware and pursuing God's great benefits should be on the top of everyone's daily to do list. However, we all need coaxing in this pursuit from time to time. Having said that, there is also a wonderful dynamic when properly motivated individuals come together in congregational praise. Spiritually motivated congregations aware of God's powerful presence will see effectiveness in the kingdom of God. Congregational singing becomes a powerful weapon in pursuit of this effectiveness. Some choose to label the results of this pursuit as "overly emotional". But I think when our desire to be motivated in the awareness and pursuit of God's benefits becomes a reality, God's praise in the congregation will be the offspring. This praise will spill over into every part of our lives, including our emotions. And why shouldn't it? What results is a refreshing freedom as God's presence moves in.

-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

God's Help

In the last few months God has been challenging me and the local church I attend. This is happening as the doctrine of the Holy Spirit has been the main focus of our pulpit ministry. Many in our local church are evangelical in background. Some have sought a symbiotic relationship with this important distinctive of the church. However, there is a sense of God's special presence in our services - as hungry people seek God's direction for their lives. And the fullness of the Spirit is something that has become increasingly desired by many, regardless of background. God is moving, there is no question of that. This blog is about music ministry. Regarding this move of God, I'm all about how He intended music ministry to operate within the local church. I maintain a constant awareness that there is the possibility of getting things backwards. In other words, to suggest that the church should somehow be directed by music ministry is not healthy in my opinion. We are to provide an atmosphere for people to seek. Through song we proclaim a message of deliverance and hope. For music ministry, there's a time to proclaim, and a time to support in the same service. Both must occur. It's obvious, in American church culture, it's easy to become distracted - or lose focus. We can't afford this in music ministry. We understand that when we're distracted, things start to fall apart in our lives, in our families, and in the church. God's special presence seems to move on. This shouldn't come as a surprise, but it does for many. Or worse, as R.T Kendall suggests, we don't even realize God has moved on without us. The good news however, is that the still small voice of the Holy Spirit continues to speak today. However, seekers can run up against a backlash. For those realizing they need to cultivate a relationship with Jesus, the feeling is almost like God is setting us up. The noise of life (unfortunately) an accepted drone, coupled with the din of our own thoughts, makes it almost impossible to hear God unless we choose to intentionally focus on Him and His Word. Those who turn things around in a positive direction toward God, are people who have experienced enough pain and dissatisfaction to seek His help. Until we do, we'll be empty. There's no other remedy. Kenneth Hagin writes in his book "Following God's Plan For Your Life" (Faith Library Publications) "...if you know on the inside of you by the inward witness what God wants you to do, don't wait around for God to give you more spectacular guidance. Obey the inward witness." As a worship musician / leader I want to facilitate this process as much as possible. It all begins with an awareness of my function.

-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

The Test

"The test of observance of Christ's teachings is our consciousness of our failure to attain an ideal perfection. The degree to which we draw near this perfection cannot be seen; all we can see is the extent of our deviation."
-Leo Tolstoy

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Great Gain

The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance; the wise grows it under his feet. James Oppenheim (1882-1932) American poet. The Bible says, ..."godliness with contentment is great gain." 1Tim.6:6. Are you struggling with circumstances beyond your control? When was the last time you laughed? Sometimes we must force ourselves to forget about the mess to move into the realm of enjoying life. Yeah, I know. It's not that easy. But, I believe God rewards those who try. Contentment isn't just about acceptance. God's word talks about "great" gain. If He calls it great, then I certainly want it. There's a level of joy God wants to give His children. Joy that's unassociated with circumstances. Joy that He alone can bring. Sometimes it comes through others. Maybe today is the day. Trust God and give it a try!
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Looking Out For Everyone

As a worship leader in the church, it doesn't take long to figure out what people expect. Eventually, notes will mysteriously appear with carefully worded suggestions - sometimes not so carefully worded. There's also the disinterested stare during corporate worship accompanied by a refusal to sing, that suggests someone is uncomfortable or unhappy. I've had to work hard at not making assumptions based on how people appear. When I have, often I've been wrong and then feel awkward that I let such thoughts run through my mind during our time of worship. Yes, worship pastors can be sidetracked like anyone else. Recently I read some constructive comments by another pastor named Nancy Beach. She made several simple suggestions with her apparently very non-musical husband in mind. I thought they were definitely worth repeating. Her suggestions are directed at worship leaders. 1) Please choose singable songs. 2) Must we repeat so much. 3) May I please sit down. 4) Stretch me with the lyrics. 5) Worship is more than singing. You can read more on these topics at www.christianitytoday.com/le/2005/004/15.105.html
-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Post-Event Communication

Certainly communication is one of those issues in ministry that is absolutely vital. Without it, we're sunk. Communication is crucial in the process of preparation and during any ministry focus. But I've found that post-event communication is just as important and has incredible potential. I don't think the Lord desires for us to live in a disconnected, unrelated event oriented manner. We learn through experience. And frankly, I want to learn as much as I can from every endeavor. I try not to move on too quickly once a certain focus is finished. I give our leadership team a chance to rest, and then we set up a time to talk about what just happened. I know things can be over analyzed, but it's very easy to congratulate those who have worked hard accomplishing ministry goals, then immediately move on to the next challenge. Discussion is good. And eye opening! I learn more about what just happened. And I learn more about me. I've found this discussion is absolutely necessary for future planning, helping us avoid pitfalls we just fell in. The beauty of taking time to talk about ministry is the perspective of other people. It's an amazing thing. But don't be so sure everyone is thinking the same thing. I want to hear what the leadership team is thinking. They actually tell me when I ask them! It's possible the meeting could turn into a gripe session. If so, are the concerns legitimate? Does it require me to work harder? Maybe. Maybe not. Am I willing? I try to have these meetings in a pleasant environment, where I can care about people. I have the meeting in my home, or someone else's on the team. Somewhere outside the church. Having the meeting in a Sunday School room a half hour before church starts on Sunday night, doesn't set the proper tone. And won't be effective. My willingness to listen and make adjustments tells the team, I care about them. I do care about the team. But I also have expectations. This meeting is a way of evaluating my/our expectations with the perception of the group. Over time the communication gets better. And that's healthy for everyone. Healthy leadership translates into more effective ministry.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian, Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Motivating Leadership

"The paradigm for leadership in the 21st century will not be the enabler, but visionary motivator... Visionary, motivating leadership will not try to take care of people but equip people to take care of themselves".
- Thomas G. Bandy (Enrichment - Winter 2006)

Tags: Christian, Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

The Spirit of the Matter

I'm convinced (as the years flash by) that our worship is more about heart attitude than anything else. You say, "yeah, tell me something I don't already know. I'm moving on to the next blog". The fact remains, articulating this concept and putting it into practice are two seperate things. It takes God's call, experience, and examination of personal motives, before we can actually begin leading with a Christ-like attitude. This self examination must be on going if we want to effectively continue. The Holy Spirit knows our hearts all too well. He is never fooled. As R.T. Kendall so eloquently states in his book, Sensitivity To The Holy Spirit, we can go about the business of leading in personal and spiritual matters, even when (I'm paraphrasing) "the dove has simply removed Himself from our activity". There is nothing necessarily spiritual about "going through the motions" of any brand of true worship liturgy. But there should be. And God knows whether we have set ourselves up as the main focal point or if we have purposefully faded out of the spotlight so He can do what He wants to do, how He wants to do it. If this is not a concern, time will be the test of your worship leading effectiveness. I'm not talking about something spooky here. God simply wants to move in our services as He chooses. Not as we choose. There is absolutely nothing I can do to make Him move. But there is something I can do to create an atmosphere for Him to move in. And there are things I can do that cause Him to move on. What I am talking about is not related to musical style or personalities. This is not about the latest worship song or spiritual songs of previous generations. I'm talking about the heart. The heart has always been at issue. Oh, that the critical mass of the local church would desire to worship God in a way that shatters the influence of the enemy, and invites the presence of God to accomplish His will, in the individual as well as the corporate body. The worship leader plays an important role and must be in right relationship with God (and with the Senior Pastor), so music / drama / dance etc. will facilitate true worship. This takes nothing less than the empowerment of the Spirit of God. Ultimately; human will, musical skill, charisma, looks, administrative skill, influence, (all the things we like to think we have) take a back seat to God's will and His choice to reveal His presence. I need Him to help me. I want Him to have His way. And He promises He will, if I'll let Him. The ball is in my court. And yours. What will you do?
-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian, Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

Vision For Worship

As I sit in my office I see music everywhere. Song books stacked nearly to the ceiling. I have racks of CD's... there's even printed music and CD's piled on the floor, yet to be heard. I have a shelf full of magazines and books pertaining to worship, sound, and buildings, with opinions and information for effective worship ministry on every page. I have computer access to much more as well. And I've thought at times, maybe like you, "where are we going with all this"? Years ago, when I first started, I wanted everything I could get my hands on. I was interested in the new, the innovative, what I considered at the time, fresh. I think my motives were pure. But over time, I've noticed, conversations about the latest worship songs leave me feeling a little...empty. How about you? I need to say, I am constantly looking for new and dynamic worship songs, but I'm looking for other things as well. I read a quote by Bob Sorge recently that stated, "When we lose our vision for worship, we can become disillusioned or despairing." This comment in his book "Experiencing Worship" is a cause and effect statement we're familiar with. After you have led your thousandth plus worship set, musical mechanics should be dialed in fairly well. So after the stage has been set to effectively lead worship, is the congregation actually worshipping? As a music minister, is it possible we could sing about worshipping God, but be disllusioned and despairing? Is our vision for worship, waning? Thank God we know, it's a fresh relationship with Christ that fuels the flame of worship and not simply the latest worship style or song. There is always an element of pressing on - vision including new worship songs, new levels of commitment and proficiency. But that vision needs to include our pursuit of Him at the top of the ministerial job description list. Never should our pursuit of either be lacking. Only a relationship with Jesus moves us from mechanical to spiritual. And spiritual worship helps us and others keep on track. Thankfully that close connection with God brings a satifaction and more importantly, effectiveness, that arrives no other way.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship

The Christ, The King, The Risen Savior

For all of you who use a worship band each week and live orchestration is not available or applicable, I recently mentioned ordering our 2006 Easter musical that solves that glitch. We received the shipment from Benson Music Publication last week. This musical has the option of using a worship band (parts deleted from the original soundtrack) with what amounts to an orchestral soundtrack. CD rehearsal tracks are available for each worship band part and are very good. The rhythm charts are just that - chords and measures etc. It's a one chart fits all, with cue comments for individual players as necessary written in the chart. The soundtrack (orchestration minus the rhythm section / praise band - with a click track) will work great for our sound situation. We use headphones as monitors through an Aviom monitor system. So it's possible to adjust the level of the click in one ear compared to the orchestration in the other as well as adjusting the other worship band members. It may be a little more challenging to use with floor monitors and board sends, where the click could be heard in the mix. I like the format overall. We'll see how it works for our group. Everything is there for us. The band plays with loops regularly. So the unforgiving click shouldn't pose too much of a timing struggle. Practice makes perfect. Happy Easter planning!
-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Easter Musical

Week of Prayer

Expectations in ministry have an ebb and flow. Traditionally, many ministries implement their sense of God's direction at the beginning of a new year. With new budgets and fresh resolve, focus and energy is poured into new frontiers... or those needing a boost. However; God reminds us, focusing on our own expectations is not primary. As Jesus said, "yet not as I will, but as Thou wilt." Matthew 26:39. It goes without saying, that God's will and our expectations will inevitably collide. And when our expectations are challenged by God...we can struggle. Many times the fresh idea is exactly God's will, but what He intends to do through the idea is partially or even completely different than our own expectation. Hannah Whitall Smith writes in her devotional book "God Is Enough", "We cannot follow the Lord fully so long as we are tied fast to anything else, any more than a boat can sail out into the boundless ocean so long as it is tied fast to the shore." We must not tie God's plan down to our personal expectations. Guard against drawing the conclusion for God. Obedience is what He desires. Staying open to God's leading is crucial. Certainly, He brings understanding to faithful leadership. Expect God's leading after setting sail with the idea. He'll guide toward the intended destination. During this week of prayer, may God's voice be heard, His wisdom gained in the implementation of plans, and His will ultimately accomplished in 2006.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional,
Gospel Music, Worship

A Heart For God

As a worship leader, ministry includes many non-negotiables. Jack Hayford writes of one in his book Worship His Majesty. He writes, "The deep cry of a leader's soul for both his own need and that of his people will never go unrewarded." We see this "deep cry" or soul searching in the Biblical record of Abraham, Moses, Peter, Paul and many others as they led God's people. It's a passion for the awareness of God's will and specific plan for effective ministry. And certainly God rewarded their efforts. Today, there are those who would prefer ministry from a distance, taking the easy way out (in my humble opinion), relying on personal abilities alone. But I've found, true effectiveness is the result of cracking the door of possibility, letting God push me beyond my perceived abilities... into the realm of faith and His abilities. For most worship pastors, our function will revolve around individuals or small groups within the local church. Although in the process of ministry it's easy (and sometimes desireable) to plug our ears and say, "too much information"!, there is nothing more rewarding than watching the humanly impossible come to pass through the power of specific prayer. I was hired to fulfill the function of worship leader, choir and drama director, but I'm expected to be an effective minister ultimately. Let our passion, soul searching and ministry function take us to this place of God directed effectiveness. During the upcoming week of prayer, as God hears the "deep cry of our soul" may He bless you with continued insight and strength for ministry in 2006.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Devotional

Easter 2006

Sure it's early to plan for Easter. I mentioned Easter to my wife and she said, "stop that, I'm not through fa la la la laing yet"! Ha! But I did find something interesting recently from Brentwood-Benson Music Publishing. One of their recent musical releases (The Christ, The King, The Risen Savior) has an interesting soundtrack option. You can get the orchestration CD without the rhythm section. One of the versions of the musical soundtrack has the drums, bass, electric guitar, piano / keyboard removed from the orchestration CD. Which means your worship band can play with the orchestration. I thought this was an interesting twist to simply recorded soundtracks. Particuarly for those chruches who do not have strings or brass available for musicals. Normally our choir simply sings to a stereo soundtrack and we add our drama and dance performance to it. This way, a worship band could play as well. I thought that was a great option. I have the musical ordered and we'll see how it goes. In addition to the rhythm section sheet music, there are rehearsal CD's for the individual worship band members as well. For the drummer, the full mix is in the right ear, and the drums are in the left, so the drums can be deleted or added to assist your drummer learning the musical. The same with the bass, electric guitar, and piano / keyboard. We'll talk more about this new feature after the musical arrives. Have a very Merry Christmas and..... happy Easter planning.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian Music, Easter, Music, Musical

Happiness

Let no one ever come to you without leaving better and happier. Be the living expression of God's kindness; kindness in your face, kindness in your eyes, kindness in your smile.
- Mother Teresa

Have it Your Way

Many years ago now, a major hamburger chain began an advertising campaign to gain the attention of prospective customers. "Have it your way..." came into existence as the public cheered this brave idea of customers having exactly what they wanted. "It's about time!", Americans clamoured. At the time, instant everything was weaving its way into the fabric of American culture. Unfortunatley, the marketing of convenience has an unmistakeable down side. Today, convenience is considered the norm, expected, even demanded. A once grateful public has turned on the commercial hand giving it options. Why? Everyone gives options now. Even more concerning, side effects from our thirst for convenience has shown up in our nation's basic understanding of God. What? There's no microwave prayer and instantanteous Godly feedback? Something must be wrong! That's not who I think God is. Let's move on. So the story is spun and the discussion settles on who's to blame for the misunderstanding. So much for peace on earth, good will to men. Wherever you are on the continuum of Christ in Christmas, the bottom line remains. God simply does not yield to demands. He never has and He never will. "Have it your way..." religion, doesn't work with God. So if you're looking for Him, another route must be taken. Oh, He still hears and answers contrite prayer. That's His way. He hears the cries of those bowing to His holiness and standing on His word. That's His way. But, arrogant demands, or religion as "I" see it (regardless of what the Bible says) has never, and will never work with God. So if you want to be fulfilled during the holidays, but prefer to leave Christ out of Christmas - prepare for some disappointment. However, the encouraging word is, He can still be found. Obviously, this is an old argument. Nothing new here, except for maybe one thing. Are the demands of this present culture a little more stark, even blatant, this year than previous years? Does it appear that American assumptions are coming back to haunt us, like the ghosts of Christmas past? Is Christmas really only about family and friends, Santa's gifts and eating? Is it all about us... or is it about Him? It's our holiday. I guess we can define it however we want, as many have done. But if I'm not mistaken, our heritage has never (until recently)left Christ out of Christmas. That's like leaving a baseball out of the game of baseball. Or apples out of apple pie. Is it possible? Obviously (to me) it isn't. It's interesting, a special holiday for the Christmas celebration isn't mentioned in God's word. But when it comes to defining what December 25th is all about, I don't wish to celebrate Christmas without Christ as many suggest. No, thank you. And I say that without malice. I would rather He be at the center of my celebration (that is if we now have the option of choosing). Anything less, and I feel like singing "Where are you Christmas?" with Cindy Lou Who. May God bless you with what can only come from Him during this Christmas season.
- Tim Covert

Tags: Christian, Devotional

Proactive Leadership

This past Sunday night marked the final performance of our Christmas musical. Months of planning, preparations and ideas developed for our modest sized platform came to an effective conclusion. Souls were won to Christ, decisions made...praise God! But to digress for a moment. The road leading to an audience with guests in any musical is challenging...like climbing a mountain. Invariably, it's close to the peak where exhaustion sets in, clouding judgment. So remember, tired people say and do things they may not normally say or do. Or it may be (when you're exhausted), it's more difficult to deal with the normal things certain people say or do ....ha! For me, when I'm tired, it becomes difficult to articulate clearly - because of all the loose ends running around in my brain demanding attention. However, people problems are simply more important than loose ends in the long run. People problems can turn into big problems quickly if they're neglected. Oh the joy of musicals. Not to state the obvious, but there are a few things to keep in mind. First, it's important for the leadership team to be on the same page. Keep the team regularly updated as the plan develops on the timeline. Make sure you've stated your position and expectations more than once, to everyone, personally. Talk about it! Secondly, don't be fooled, under the stress of the climb, keep one eye on the correct focusing of ellipsoidal #5 and the other open to observing how people are treating each other. Don't allow disunity. Not that everyone with a problem needs your correction. Be perceptive enough to sense if it's an isolated issue or something more. Third, if there is a problem, deal with those involved only. If it's a problem that could be dealt with in a particular area... have a trusted leadership team member (over that area) deal with it. If it's bigger, stop what you are doing and lovingly, appropriately attend to the matter. Remember, the ultimate goal is larger than successfully climbing the mountain. Once we're at the peak, it's there we have an audience with people. I like the military saying... no one left behind. If it's within our ability...everyone makes it to the top. That way, God uses all of us to see souls saved. So "be not weary in well doing." Galatians 6:9. Finally, planning and prayer are essential to leading a successful climb. Without them, reaching the top will be too difficult. If there's multiple avalanches on the trip, how will everyone effectively minister when it's time? They'll be too exhausted. And some volunteers will not climb with you again. Proper planning can prevent those things. May your Christmas musical be blessed, volunteers strengthened and many souls added to the kingdom!
-Tim Covert

Tags: Christian, Christian Music, Musical, Seasonal Musicals

Come unto Me

I read Oswald Chambers recently. His comments regarding rest (Matthew 11:28) are very meaningful this time of year. Chambers writes in My Utmost for His Highest, "Jesus says, 'Come unto Me and I will give you rest,' i.e., Christ-consciousness will take the place of self-consciousness. Whenever Jesus comes He establishes rest, the rest of the perfection of activity that is never conscious of itself." As music ministers, the effort used to perform, to accomplish the task, to do the job description must be tempered with this rest - particularly when the pace quickens during the Christmas season. Otherwise, as Chambers points out, in accomplishing the vision for the local church we become conscious of ourselves and not God's power working through us. During your busiest and most challenging moments, be careful not to let your guard down. Take time to go to the author of rest. Never let your focus wander from His empowering presence for which we praise God! It's all about Him.
-Tim Covert

Tags: Devotional, Christian