Climbing the stage stairway in near darkness, I approach the entrance to the drum kit and swing open the sound deadening door. Crouching down, I ensconce myself on the drummer's "throne" at the center of an array percussive instruments. Everything is arranged for optimal performance and microphones are in place. Headphones dangle close by, ready for use. Anticipation grows exponentially and time grows short. Almost ready to go live. Keyboards are in place. Bass, rhythm and lead guitars are tuned and ready to go. Must be careful, microphones are live and faithful to amplify any sound they hear.
Thoughts of the first few measures race through my mind. Tempo....dynamics....don't forget to smile....we are there to lead worship, to bring hurting souls to the throne of the Savior. At that moment I pray, Lord, not my will, not by my ability, but by Your grace, play through me, bring to my mind the correct succession of beats combined with a submissive, steady tempo. Then comes the release. I feel The Spirit guiding....leading....interceding....smoothing out the rough places, allowing me to make a joyful noise unto The Lord.
What a privilege and responsibility I have had for over twenty five years (almost) every Sunday morning to serve in music ministries at multiple churches. It is a joy as well as spiritually rewarding to myself and those in earshot, at least I hope. Yet I could not have done it were it not for my ministry enabling, godly wife especially during our child rearing days when I could not be in the nursery. For her, I am eternally grateful. Thank the Lord also for the countless behind the scenes ministry enablers who often go unnamed and unrecognized who give of their own time for the sake of the ministry of Christ. Their heavenly reward will be great.
Praise the LORD. Praise God in his sanctuary; praise him in his mighty heavens. Praise him for his acts of power; praise him for his surpassing greatness. Praise him with the sounding of the trumpet, praise him with the harp and lyre, praise him with timbrel and dancing, praise him with the strings and pipe, praise him with the clash of cymbals, praise him with resounding cymbals. Psalm 150:1-5
Jim
For students of the drum:
The drummer boy beats his drum. Fun entry, Jim.