May 2009

A couple of weeks ago my wife and I attended a concert at Calvin College featuring Japanese organist Masaaki Suzuki. Suzuki is considered one of a handful of specialists in the music of Johann Sebastian Bach. I was eagerly anticipating this concert, not only to hear a master play the music of a master, but also because Suzuki has been faithful in bringing the music of Bach to the people of Japan as a way of introducing them to the God of Scripture. To say the least, the concert certainly resonated with the full house at the Calvin Chapel. The music was at times tender, often powerful, well articulated and deeply personal. I left the concert fulfilled, my heart overflowing with joy and wonder at the unique gift of God – music and the ability to have it played so brilliantly.

A week later Elissa and I attended the Converge Michigan conference in Lansing. We heard a full concert by theologian, composer, and artist, Michael Card. Michael performed his own compositions. All were simply sung, accompanied by either piano, guitar and in one instance, banjo. His folk style was laid back, informal, and personal. He often had the audience/worshipers join in singing with him.

Two very different concerts. Two very different styles of music and artistry. Yet both were music written and played or sung for God’s glory. Bach’s written musical scores often had these words written at the top of the first page: “Jesus Help Me.” Bach understood that he needed the Lord to guide him in writing his music. He also wrote three words at the end of his compositions: “Soli Deo Gloria” which means “to the glory of God alone.” Card’s music came out of deep study of God’s Word, trying to bring fresh understanding to those who heard and sung it. Two different styles of music and artistry. Yet both written, played, and sung for God’s glory.

Taste is a very personal thing. Whether it be in food, clothing, or music. People in the late 1600’s worshiped the same God we do today in 2009. Musical and performance styles may change. Culture changes whether by time or location or ethnic backgrounds. Yet, we should embrace them all, even when it’s not our favorite, because we need to understand that style and form, in and of itself is not right or wrong. It’s why we do what we do that counts. God is not pleased with only Bach or only Card. God is not worshiped by only hymns or only praise choruses.

One of the fatal mistakes we make about worship is equating worship with our feelings. Worship is not what we get . . . it’s what we give. Listen to this quote from J.D. Walt regarding taste and worship:
“Too often we don’t construct worship ‘for God’ but for individuated consumers who come for an experience of God. This is how we manage to endlessly fight over worship. For those coming to be fed, taste is a never-ending battle.” (J. D. Walt, “It’s All About Who? Part Two” http://www.christianitytoday.com/leaders/newsletter/2004/cln40913.html)
God is worshiped by a broken spirit and a broken and contrite heart (Psalm 51:17). So make room in your heart for your brother or sister’s worship language. Even when we sing a song that’s not one of your favorites, remember, it may be a deep expression of praise for someone else. Rejoice in the diversity we have in the body of Christ. Rejoice in the fact that whether we sing “How Great Thou Art” or “How Great Is Our God” both songs speak of Him who is worthy to be praised. Let’s keep our focus on God. After all, it’s all about Him.

Worshiping the Lord with you,

Pastor Lew