Some things in life cannot be adequately described with words. You know it’s true. There is an awareness that is intended by God to be gained first hand, not from a book or someone else’s testimony. I’ve seen this materialize in my closest relationships. Hearing “Poppa” and seeing tiny hands reaching up is an amazing spectacle that began a generation earlier and continues to touch my heart. What incredible influence exists now and in the future as this special relationship unfolds. On the other end of the time spectrum I remember walking across a street with another “Poppa Covert” (my father) a number of years ago. It wasn’t a particularly busy street, but it was busy enough. I was in my late 30’s and he was in his early 70’s. He did something I thought was funny at the time. He reached out to grab my hand (like I was a child) as we crossed the street together. I chuckled as I thought to myself, “It’s just his paternal instinct kicking in.” But later as I reflected, I thought maybe he was reaching out for his son’s assistance. At that time, it appeared my father was in good health and very active. However, the thought of my unawareness (if that were true) horrified me and forced me to view things differently. There’s those awareness moments again, some are pleasant and some are not. They take time to develop. Maybe your ministry awareness learning curve has been similar to mine. As a young church worker I think of the many “incredible” music ideas I had. They were profound of course and very necessary! Ha! This should be done, and that should be done. Can’t people see it? Thank God there is wisdom in patient counsel. Patient counsel given by men and women just like many of you, saved me from unwise or ill-timed brainstorms. And for those times I forged ahead anyway, thank God for every necessary failure that brought course direction and a more accurate understanding of how God moves and works within His church. Attempting to find the right voice of encouragement while not destroying the desire and energy of those actively pursing innovation is a great indicator of awareness. Ah, leadership. It looked so easy when Dad was at the wheel! So be patient if we lovingly and instinctively reach out our hand discussing music ministry do’s and don’ts. For those pursuing ministry, learn all you can learn from your experience. Transfer smoothly into a leadership role. And don’t forget—later, it just might be me needing assistance.
God is good,
Tim Covert
Tags: Christian Music, Devotional, Worship
