‘I was glad when they said unto me let us go into the house of the Lord.’ (Psalm 122:1)
I can honestly say I feel goose bumps when I walk into church most Sundays. As a worship leader / director I’m one of the first to arrive. My adrenaline is pumping – as I go through the motions of setting music stands, mic checks and other last-minute tasks, I feel a strong surge of anticipation. I think through the words of the first song – and my heart asks: What will God do in the hearts of those present today? What heights of praise will we reach? Where will God take us? How will I, and the team, be changed?
In those moments, I utter a private ‘thank you’ to God. I will never take this position for granted. Worship is what I was made for, and God has given me a place and time to serve Him. A week’s worth of coordinating musicians, rehearsing charts and preparing folders – and this hour is the culmination.
‘You are holy, enthroned on the praises of Israel.’
Have you experienced the Lord in this way? What is it like for you? We’re maybe a rare breed – those of us who take on this awesome responsibility to lead worship. Many people will enter those doors after us. Some have had to deal with bosses who have little tolerance of even one weekend hour off work. Some are in desperate need of one hour of peace and quiet after a busy week feeding and caring for their kids. When the first notes of the first song are played, I gaze across the room, praying I find that one person in worship I’ve never seen before. Before I know it, the service is over, and I’m energized and exhausted all at the same time.
Worship leading is my passion – and I’d love to hear from others who feel the same way.
