Tells of the Doorkeeper

Worship At A Funeral

2010-05-22T20:42:00.001-05:00

I’ve been a worship leader for over 20 years. I’ve led worship for small groups, large conferences, and churches of all sizes. I’ve been in churches in other countries where they didn’t speak the same language and yet I recognized a melody and worshipped as one with my brothers and sisters. On Wednesday, however, I experienced a type of worship that moved me in a way like no other service before.

You see, Wednesday, April 14, 2010 was my mother-in-law’s funeral. I had an unfamiliar vantage point as I sat in the family area instead of the minister’s area. I’ve been in attendance at far more funerals than most people ever will. I’ve conducted funerals as a minister, performed in song, and assisted others. On occasion I’ve even sat in with my own family at services for grandparents and other relatives. I’ve done services for saints and sinners and stages in between; for friends and strangers; for youth and seniors. As my rambling suggests, I’m no stranger to worship or funerals. But this day would prove to be one of those moments when God allowed me to experience something new.

We sat as her pastor opened the service. Next began the first song. It is about then that I realized something was different. As the music began people started to lift their heads instead of hanging them. Next came the reading of the obituary and scripture. Then it happened. The familiar strains, the tender lyrics, "… I can only imagine, when that day will come…” It was then I noticed it. My wife and her sisters began singing along. Softly at first; then building. Next I saw a hand lift and began to hear my niece behind me joining in. Before long the entire section was enthralled in worship.

I don’t mean the Sunday morning mumble the words or sing with no conviction. I’m talking lost in bliss, healing, stress relieving worship. Now this may not mean much to you, but as the old Spiritual says, “You don’t know like I know.” You see as recently as 2 years ago not all of my wife’s family was in church. As a matter of fact, some of them had no desire to go or even consider it. But slowly over the last year or so, God began moving. I’d like to say it was some earth shaking moment where they had a vision of God or were struck blind on the road to Damascus; but it was the simple, loving invite of friends and family that got them to visit. From there it was growing in God, until just a few months ago I had the opportunity to minister at a church with my wife’s entire family worshipping together. Which brings us back to Wednesday.

Having seen where they came from, and knowing first hand the sudden, painful loss of their mom shouldn’t result in worship; but when God is the Lord of them, that is exactly what happens. As I sat awed by the powerfulness of the moment, I felt the impression that this is what real worship is. People who have lost something praising a God who has everything. Not concerned about impressing people – or even God, but rather crying out from the depth of a heart full of praise. A heart in steady relationship with a living God. Confident that, come what may, He is worthy to be praised. This is the only life I know, and I can imagine no other.

DoorKeeper Worship School

2008-03-19T12:18:00.001-05:00

It is with great excitement that I write you concerning our plans to launch the DoorKeeper Worship School in Birmingham this September. This school is the culmination of a vision that God laid on my heart over ten years ago to raise up and develop worship leaders. This led to the forming of DoorKeeper Worship Ministries for the purpose equipping and training church music leaders and now has realized the dream of providing a place for more in depth training.

As you’ll see from our information sheet and website, the staff of DoorKeeper has years of experience working with and training worship leaders from churches of all sizes, styles and backgrounds.

In preparation for this launch, we are offering a special, invitation only, six week Master Session. These sessions will cover aspects of leading worship, building and maintaining a healthy worship ministry, and how developing Worship Ministry philosophy affects the overall culture and growth of the local church. This class is exclusively for Pastor’s and Worship Leader’s, or their appointees, that would like to experience what DoorKeeper has to offer and see how DKWS can benefit their Worship Team. Master Session begins Saturday, April 19th and continues each Saturday through May 24 from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Faith Community Fellowship offices located on Old Springville Road. In order to introduce you to DoorKeeper, this special six week Master Class tuition is available for only $30 which includes full course materials and handouts.

After experiencing Master Session, we hope that you will want to attend DKWS or send some of your team beginning in September for our full curriculum class that will help equip your leaders and team members for effective ministry. If you attend this master class and decide to attend the full course in the fall, we will give you a $30 discount on your tuition. We will also be offering discount to leaders who want to bring several team members in the fall.

If you have any questions or would like more feel free to call our office at (205) 835-3153, or email us at info@doorkeeperworship.com . To register, email your name and contact information, or call and you will be ready to go! We look forward to serving you.

His Servant,
Jeff Robinson
Director

My Space

2007-08-31T09:22:00.001-05:00

Well, It has happened. DoorKeeper has joined the My Space community. Check out our site at www.myspace.com/doorkeeperworship. There's a free download of a new song right now. Check it out!

Student Testimony

2007-08-31T09:22:00.000-05:00

It's been a crazy summer! Hopefully yours is going well. I want to share a testimony that one of my former students and musicians posted recently. Brenda and KT Bass are awesome people that God is using greatly. Hope you are as blessed as I have been while watching this unfold. Jeff

This past January we found out we were going to have a baby.....our first. This was a much prayed for and planned pregnancy. Right from the first day I found out I was pregnant I prayed and told God that this was His baby and that He could do whatever He choose. Even though we got pregnant right away, I still felt like Hannah did......giving her baby that she had prayed for up to the Lord. I prayed for an uneventful, boring pregnancy. Well, God had different plans.
At our 8 weeks ultrasound, I was told I was going to have a miscarriage, point blank. The midwife said there was fluid in the abdomen and that was pushing the heart up into the neck. But, she wanted us to come back in 2 weeks, to look again.
So, two weeks later we had another ultrasound. This time a doctor looked at it. There was fluid behind the baby's neck. He didn't know what exactly it was that was wrong, so he wanted us to go to a specialist. (It's amazing how in 2 weeks time my baby went from looking like a shrimp to a tiny human!.....and people say there isn't a God)
Well, in 1 week we were sitting in Shands in Gainesville, for a level two ultrasound. He said that it looked like a chromosome abnormality, most likely Down's Syndrome. He said IF the baby was still there in a month to come back. He also said we should have genetic testing. We decided that since chromosome "problems" couldn't be "fixed" we didn't want to risk our baby and go through all the testing and worry. The doctor wanted to know if we wanted to terminate, knowing that the baby was "messed up". Of course we said no. God decides when a life ends, not us. That is a decision I still, to this day......knowing the out come, would not change.
We had another ultrasound at the doctor's office and then went back to Shands a month later. By this time, the baby was much bigger, so the doctor could see more. The fluid behind the neck had grown, there was fluid in the body and legs (hydrops) and now there was a heart condition (problem with the aorta).He said that based on what he saw then, it looked like Turners Syndrome. Only girls get this, so we knew we were having a girl based on that. The doctor said that with all that combined (hydrops and heart problem) the baby wouldn't live past 22 weeks. Only 2% of babies with Turners live.
By this time I was already 15 weeks. I had prayed from the first day I found out there were problems that if God was going to take my baby, that he do it early. I told him, "I can't deliver a dead baby, I can't!" That was my greatest fear. Going through labor only in the end to have no baby, nothing to show for all that hard work. I couldn't do it.
Because of the doctors findings, I had to go in every two weeks to have heartbeat checks (so if something did happen, we would know). This was the hard part (well, one of many). In a place where there are people happy and excited about calling grandma with the "its a boy" speech, I was wondering "is my baby alive today?" A place of new life became a scary uncertain place for me. I dreaded going there.......every two weeks.
Well, I went in for our 23 week check (KT was at EVERY one of my appointments). Sure enough, our little girl was still in there, kicking away. However, her heartbeat was too fast. It was a sign that her heart was having to work too hard (the heart problem). So, we were given a bad report. The doctor said it was a "bad sign".
Still, I could feel my girl kicking and moving. As long as I felt that, I was sure she was OK and going to make it. During all this, it was hard to get excited about the normal pregnancy stuff (showers, registering, decorating the nursery). I tried. I tried to act like nothing was wrong. I tried to act as if she was going to be here in a few months. I prayed. The church prayed. People out of state prayed. People I never met prayed. I believed God would heal her, 100%. I prayed that God would do whatever he had to do in order to get the maximum glory in all this.
God had brought me to a place that to this day I am thankful for. I was able (by His strength) to say that if he calls me to deliver a dead baby, he will give me the grace and strength to do it. I've learned that God gives you the strength to go through what He calls you to go through. "If He leads you to it, he'll get you through it". I didn't know how, but I had peace. I knew I was in His hands. I knew that this little girl belonged to Him. It was out of my hands.
Over memorial day weekend I felt her move.....for the last time. I tried not to worry. I just thought, "she doesn't move much anyway. I'm still new at knowing what a baby feels like". People kept asking me if I felt her move and I would say yes (probably to tell myself that everything was OK).
We went in for our 2 week heartbeat check on June 7th. At this point I was 25 weeks (6 months). After numerous attempts, they couldn't find a heartbeat. Since the technician had already gone home, they sent us to the hospital to get an ultrasound. I was admitted and checked into labor and delivery. I refused to worry because I hadn't yet had proof to be upset. So they couldn't find a heartbeat, not to worry. Maybe she is just in a spot that makes it hard to find?
When the technician did the ultrasound, I could tell by the look on her face that my little girl had already gone home to be with her Father. She didn't have to tell me. Then, when she finally did, my world broke apart. In that moment, reality hit me like a hammer. I'd never meet my little girl. I'd never hold her, never hear her cry. I'd never see KT be the protective dad, never see him kiss his little girl goodnight. Never swing her in the air. In that moment, I died.
The doctors asked if I wanted to go home for a few days or start drugs to induce labor. I was there, I wanted to get it over with. So, they gave me the drugs that would induce labor. The nurses were great. They grieved with me. I never had to ask for anything. On Friday, June 8th, at 5:30PM my Grace entered and exited this world.
I never saw her. I didn't want to. I know that that was not how I wanted to remember her. KT saw her little foot though. With the drugs they put me on, I couldn't see straight anyway. When I woke up, I said "Her name is Grace". I asked KT if we could call her that. God's grace got us through. His grace was enough. Her name should be Grace.
One of my friends from church brought me a little white dress and bonet to put Grace in. It looked like an angel dress! So many friends came to see me. God really looked after us. After some thought, we decided to burry her and have a service. She was our first child and deserved to be honored as such. She was just as much alive as anyone.
I left the hospital the next day. KT and his dad went to the funeral home to make the arrangements. We wanted to bury Grace in the family cemetery, by his mother and sister (KT's mom had a stillborn girl....her first too) We just weren't sure there were any spots left (it's a small country cemetery). We had an aunt who donated a plot for us. The funeral home even did all the arrangements at NO charge! God really blessed us.
On Sunday, June 10th, we had a grave side service for Grace. I have never seen such a small casket. People had brought flowers and teddy bears to put on Grace's grave (something we didn't think of). My friend sang "It is well with my soul". I have learned that no matter what condition I'm in, no matter how the "sea billows roll", what ever my lot, God has taught me to say it is well with my soul. Over 100 people came to the funeral. My pastor cried as he gave the short message. Every one filed by to give us hugs and blessings.
Then it was time to say goodbye. I knew my Grace had already gone to be with her Daddy, but in that moment, it was like saying good bye for forever. I could hardly do it, but I had to. I put my hand on her casket and said, "Goodbye little girl". That was all I could get out.
So, that's it. That's my story. To this day, God is using a little girl no one has met, to give him glory. God did heal my little girl. She is 100% well. She is running the streets of glory, like a little girl should. I will never have to worry about the sniffles or a scrape. She is in good hands. Her grandma is watching out for her. Her heavenly father is there, holding her to his chest. KT said it best, "It's better for our girl to be in God's arms than in ours".
God's grace is sufficient, no matter what. No matter what you are going through, will go through, or have been through. He is enough. God has restored me and brought me up from a dark, deep pit that could have destroyed me and my marriage. I will always carry this hole in my heart. I will never "get over it". That day a piece of my heart died, but God is healing my heart. His is working on me. He has made that dead heart come back to life! God is the author and finisher of our faith. He loves you. He sent his son for you.
Please, remember my little Grace. Remember how she touched so many people for Jesus. Her life still touches people, and I hope it always will.

In His Grace,
Brenda L. Bass
1 Corinthians 12:9

Be Somebody

2007-06-19T17:55:00.000-05:00

Recently I was in a restaurant and heard a song that had the words, “I’m trying to be somebody, and I’m not trying to be somebody else.” These words began to ring in my head and cause me to think about how we often try to emulate others, instead of being who we are. I remember as a teenager I wanted to be the next … are you ready? ... Mylon LeFevre. That’s right, I was an 80’s child. I even went so far as to name one of my children Mylon. Honestly. I realize I’ve just lost some of you, but I’m trying to be honest.

I went through other musicians. Russ Taff, Ron Kenoly, Geron Davis, Israel Houghton, Darlene Zschech (yes I know she’s a girl, don’t ask)… I spent a lot of time early on in my career trying to be somebody else. Go ahead and laugh. I deserve it.

As I travel to churches and have the opportunity to hear many different worship leaders, I see people making the same mistake I did over and over again. Within minutes, it becomes obvious for most worship leaders who their influences are. I’ve even heard leaders who memorize and use the word for word exhortations from the CD’s. (Ok – I’ve done it too.) The crime is not that we are ripping these artists off, but that we are cheating our churches from experiencing something original. God called you not because he wanted a clone of someone else. He wants you. He placed you where you are to do what only you can do.

Years ago as a teenager, I had an opportunity to talk with a producer and show him some of my original songs. Being a supportive Christian brother, this guy took the time to talk to me and challenge me in some areas musically. However, the best advice he gave me was, “The world already has a Mylon, they need a Jeff.” Today I give the same advice to so many of you, God already has a Chris Tomlin, or David Crowder, or whoever. What he wants is you. Take the songs, even if they’re not original, and minister them to the Lord as a personal offering from you. Lead your congregation as you, not as someone else. Truth be told, you do a much better impersonation of you than Israel anyway.

New DVD and MP3's available

2007-06-12T15:44:00.000-05:00

If you read our newsletter, you heard about our MP3's and DVD available on-line. Here is the store to check out. You can also visit it at www.cdfreedom.com/doorkeeperworship.

Are You Outraged?

2007-06-06T20:48:00.000-05:00

As you know if you’ve read any of my stuff, I spend a lot of time on the road, and therefore see A LOT of bumper stickers. Recently, I saw one that that stated, “If you’re not outraged, you’re not looking.” Now as anyone who watches the news knows, that lack of outrage is not the problem in society today. It seems everyone is outraged at something. Iraq, the president, Paris Hilton, I’ve even noticed people who are outraged about people who are outraged… Now I know you’re wondering right now how this relates to worship. Well, as I tossed these things in my head, I began to see a pattern. You see it is our human nature to feel so strongly about something that we can’t possibly see how anyone could disagree. Living once again in Alabama, I’m so reminded of this every football season. One side can’t understand how the other side could possibly see things differently. And unfortunately, this same attitude often makes it way into our church worship.

My wife and I are quite opposite in almost every way. I’m a rock and roll, meat and potato (unless there’s more meat!), night owl and my wife is a country, veggies and salad, early to bed type. However, we learned long ago that our differences (when acknowledged) complemented one another. In too many churches I’ve been in, there seems to be an attitude of different is bad. Now don’t get me wrong, we’re not talking about selling out or compromising (although those words often come up when we feel our position is threatened), we are talking about understanding that God is bigger than us and our ideas. One of the most liberating truths I’ve come to realize is that everyone can teach me something. Getting past the thought that only my style of music, or only my way of doing things works, opens up doors and opportunities to learn and grow as a worship leader. There was a time that I felt that if my worship team wasn’t doing the hottest, newest worship songs and arrangements, we were somehow missing God. I have met others who swung the pendulum in the complete opposite direction. Thankfully, I’ve grown up a bit since then, and understand that style is not nearly as important content.

Recently I was asked the question, “What does God think of our worship?” The speaker went on to explain that people in the congregation comment on the worship service every week, but seldom do we ask or wonder if God was pleased. Many times our worship services become our outlet for creativity or for doing our favorite songs. Worship should be a time of touching the Father’s heart. A time of bringing a gift that pleases the Creator. Understanding that God is diverse enough to create the thousands of personalities and tastes that we have, helps us understand that He is not limited to our personal tastes.

Definition of a Doorkeeper, Pt. 2

2007-04-10T21:24:00.000-05:00

*Note- Hey, here's part two of Tammy Bailey's excellent article. Enjoy. Jeff

SO….What happened to Obed-Edom after the whole nation of Israel came to take away God’s presence? Did he realize why his home was blessed? Did he understand the dynamics of having the ark close by? Did he give it up willingly? What happened to Obed-Edom after he experienced God’s presence? How did he become a doorkeeper?

In 1 Chronicles 15:19 and 24 we find him. When King David came and took away the presence of God from the house of Obed-Edom, something was missing. His crops still flourished, he still had money in the bank. The local people had even asked him to run for mayor. He was still blessed, but it wasn’t the same. Something was missing! He had to be back in that presence. He had to find a way to be near that ark. I’m sure he asked for an audience with the king and it was granted. I mean David wouldn’t turn down a meeting with the guy that had come through in a crunch for him and his entire country.

I wonder what that conversation was like? Obed-Edom had asked for an audience with the king. I’m sure he just wanted to ask David if there was some way he could be near the ark, somewhere he could serve. Somewhere close to the presence. “ David, I’ll just sweep the floor or whatever. You name it. I just have to be in God’s presence”. I can imagine that King David said, “Well, okay Obed, let’s see what we can do. Tell me, can you preach? “Obed said, “well, no I don’t have a lot of education. I just don’t think I could do that”. King David said,” well that’s okay. Tell me Obed, can you sing?” Obed-Edom said, “Well, Sir I sing in the shower, but it’s not real pretty, so I don’t think you would want me to do that.” King David just nodded and said, “don’t worry about it Obed, I’m sure we’ll think of something. Obed, can you play a trumpet?” Obed shook his head in disappointment and said,” no”. King David smiled. He was touched by the determination of this man who only wanted to serve in some way. King David reached down beside his throne and picked up his well-worn harp, the one he had since he was a boy tending his father’s sheep. It was not a beautiful instrument by any means, but David had worshiped his way into God’s presence many times with this simple piece of wood and strings. He said, “here Obed, try this”. Obed-Edom’s eyes lit up. He smiled and said,” Oh yes sir, I think I can do something with this.” So in verse 19 the bible says that Obed-Edom, Jeiel and Azaziah were appointed to play the harps in the tabernacle and in verse 24 the bible also says that Obed-Edom and Jehial were also to be doorkeepers for the ark.

Finally, Obed-Edom was appointed to a title and a position to which he was already serving. Sometimes, we as doorkeepers want the title, uniform and recognition without the training or experience. Sometimes, we think the price is too high to pay. But not Obed-Edom. He was now an official doorkeeper and a musician to boot. He had housed the presence of God, used the key of worship to open the door to his future, all while wearing his uniform of humility and brokenness before the king. This doorman helped lead an entire nation into the presence of God. He had an appointment from heaven that was finally recognized by the king and the entire nation of Israel. Why was he qualified to be a doorkeeper? Because he did the job long before having the title to go with it!

Now, there is something we need to remember, the people that were chosen and appointed by the king worshiped in the tabernacle and sang praises and played instruments and blew trumpets 24 hours a day, 7 days a week 365 days a year for 36 years…non-stop!

It wasn’t a part-time job Obed-Edom was asking for. He was making a lifestyle change.
Obed-Edom was willing to do whatever it took to stay in God’s presence.

He was a doorkeeper. The bible says that he took his place of assignment at the door. He took his place not at the door that you, like me, probably assumed. He was not at the door of the tabernacle.

Look again…they were appointed not as doorkeepers for the tabernacle, but doorkeepers for the ark. Wow! He was close. A doorkeeper of God’s presence. Obed-Edom had spent enough time in God’s presence to have the honor of standing by the door to help others.

He stood close by to make sure that everything was in order for everyone else to worship. He was able to take others into where he had already been. And he was changed. He gave up all he had to take care of the presence of God for others. He held open the door to God’s presence for everyone else. He helped them with their baggage. He gave them directions to where they wanted to go and even provided transportation if needed to be sure they got where they wanted to go. He did what every good doorman does. Whatever it takes!

See, we cannot take others where we have not yet been or are willing to go. It may take a lifestyle change on our part and a deeper determination to seek God’s presence than we have made so far. We may have to serve in the position without recognition for a while. We may have to practice for his presence.

There is one thing that do I love about the south. We have all been taught to be polite; to say “yes ma’am” and “no ma’am” and “please” and “thank you”. We have been taught to respect our elders and more importantly, we have been taught to hold the door open for others. It is the civilized thing to do. If we can do something so simple in our everyday lives to show respect for others, surely we can make an even bigger impact by practicing these principles in the spirit realm. Worship your way into God’s presence and then hold the door open for others. Become a doorkeeper.

John 10:9 – I am the Door. Anyone who enters in through Me will be saved (will live). He will come in and he will go out (freely) and will find pasture (rest and sustenance). Amplified.

Definition of a Doorkeeper, Pt. 1

2007-03-12T21:37:00.000-05:00

*Note- I know I haven't posted in a while, but we're back. This part one of an article by one of our Doorkeeper Instructors, Tammy Bailey. Hope you enjoy it.

Jeff

Doorkeeper. Hmmmmm, what is a doorkeeper anyway?

As I pondered the daunting task of writing my first article I began to think about just what a doorkeeper is and what his or her specific function might be. Are there daily routines to be kept? Is there a cool outfit that comes with the job that identifies the doorkeeper and therefore garners much wanted attention? Does the doorkeeper have a key? Just what is their job description?

Webster’s identifies a doorkeeper as someone on duty at a door or gate, especially somebody who guards the entrance. The thesaurus offers another look at the word describing additionally a gatekeeper, porter, concierge, caretaker and janitor.

Alright, I understand a little more about what a doorkeeper is, but what about this door that they are keeping. What is it and why are they keeping it? I needed to dig a little deeper.

Being raised in the south and armed only with my bible, a concordance and my somewhat less than sterling upbringing, I decided to look into this doorkeeper job. I mean, I have an idea of what my southern roots would have me believe that my job should be, but I really needed some clarity on the matter. You see, being raised in the south, I have a somewhat skewed view of life. I was not raised in a Christian home by Christian parents who taught Christian values. What I was taught was that there are differences; differences between us and them, black and white, rich and poor. Anyone who was not like us was different. And anyone that was different was to be kept out, kept down and kept away. I was raised in the south of whites only and blacks only and signs on entrances that informed everyone about those differences. There were separate sitting rooms in doctor’s offices, separate hospitals, separate restaurants and still today, separate churches. There were usually doorkeepers in these places just to be sure that everyone stayed in their separate places. Hmmmm. Somehow, I don’t think that is what the scriptures had in mind.

Now, I realize that not everyone was raised in a trailer in the south and y’all probably know exactly what a doorkeeper is. But we are each products of our environment – good or bad. So forgive me if I take things a little slower. I am overcoming my upbringing.
Those of you raised in the north probably know all about doorkeepers. You probably called them the doorman. That is probably a truer picture of what the scriptures were referring to. In front of just about every hotel and high-rise you will find him. You can recognize the doorman by both his uniform and his position. He dutifully stands at his post daily, carrying out his assignment. The closest thing to a doorman I ever knew was when my mom yelled at us to, “either come in or out and quit slamming the door”.

I really want to pull this whole doorkeeper thing together so I decided to go the Old Testament route. After all, the word doorkeeper sounded kind of Old Testament. There I found an entire list of doorkeepers. There was one in particular that stood out to me.
In 1 Chronicles 15 a man named Obed-Edom was assigned the task of being a doorkeeper for the Ark of the Covenant.
Finally, I was getting somewhere! King David upon the return of the Ark of the Covenant had assigned specific tasks for the everyday in and out operation of the church. I found it very interesting that one of the men assigned to be a doorkeeper was
Obed-Edom. What was it about Obed-Edom that qualified him to be a doorkeeper? I read backward for a while and researched some Sunday School lessons I had taught a couple of years ago and things became much clearer…………..

It seems that King David had decided to bring the Ark of the Covenant (the presence of God) back to the City. He had conferred with his officers, commanders of thousands and commanders of hundreds. He sent word both near and far for the priests and Levites to come. What was amazing to me in reading I Chronicles is that the bible says that no one had even inquired of the Ark (the presence of God) during the entire reign of Saul. No one even knew where it was. How do you misplace something that important? How do you just lose God’s presence and not realize it? Sorry, I digress. That is perhaps another question for another day.

As the story goes, the Ark was in the house of Abinadab. It had been there quite a long time. David sets off to bring the Ark back giving no thought to proper protocol or procedures. That was a disaster just waiting to happen. And it did. In 2 Samuel 6 the Word says that Uzzah, the son of Abinadab, was struck dead for mishandling the presence of God. Now, I am sure that some of you bible scholars out there might have a different reason for the death of Uzzah, but my take on the matter is that Uzzah, having been around the Ark his entire life fell into the same trap that we in the church sometimes find ourselves – treating the extraordinary as ordinary. We take for granted this wonderful gift of God’s presence as if it is something that we are entitled to and more often than not, something that we can control. It seems that we sometimes find ourselves being door controllers rather than doorkeepers.

Through a set of circumstances that were beyond his control, the presence of God ended up in the house of Obed-Edom. King David’s plan to bring the presence of God back to the Israelites had taken a detour. A lot of times we think that God’s presence has taken a detour in our lives, but God always has a plan. He just wants to bless someone else on the way.
Anyway the Ark of the Covenant - the physical representation of God’s presence on this earth had ended up in the home of Obed –Edom. He just happened to be in the right place at the right time. It seems that King David, a little shaken up at the death of Uzzah said, “Whoa, wait a minute, this thing is dangerous. I don’t think we’re ready for this. We can’t go one step further until we know what we’re doing. We need to put this thing down for a while. We need to be better prepared. But where can we take it? Does anyone know where the closest AAA Storage facility is located?“

Obed-Edom was probably just a bystander that day. We don’t know a lot about him. He had probably just come to town to see the parade. I mean they were making quite a hoopla and all. Anyway he said,” you can take it to my house, Mamma-nem won’t mind, we’ve got plenty of room.” So that’s what they did.

The presence of God ended up in the house of Obed-Edom where it remained for three months. Now Obed-Edom probably wasn’t well known. He didn’t hold office. He probably wasn’t the wealthiest man in the land. Maybe he was just a simple farmer. You might have seen him interviewed on TV just after the tornado went through. He was just an ordinary man with extraordinary blessing potential. What if he hadn’t been there that day? What if he hadn’t offered his house? Obed-Edom offered his home to house the presence of God and God will always go where he is welcome.

Let’s pick up with 2 Sam 6:11 - The ark (God’s presence) remained in the house of
Obed-Edom for three months and the Lord blessed him and his entire household. Vs.12 - Now David was told “The Lord has blessed the house of Obed-Edom and everything he has because of the ark (presence) of God.

CHANGED……. IN A MOMENT!

By simply allowing the presence of God into his home - his entire life and that of his family was forever changed. For three months the house of Obed-Edom, his family, his children, his servants, his livestock, his crops, etc. blossomed. Everything he put his hand to prospered. He was operating in the presence of God. He was being a doorkeeper and didn’t even realize it. He didn’t have a title. He didn’t have a uniform. He didn’t seem to have any of the things that one would assume a doorkeeper to have…..except for one. He had the key. When we have an attitude of worship and spirit of excellence in everything we do, we live in God’s presence and he blesses us. He shines his favor on us. Our homes are happy, our children are not sick, our finances go further, everything is better…when we worship our lives into his presence.

David knew he had to go and get the ark (presence of God) so that the entire nation could benefit from being near it and that’s exactly what he did.

To Be Continued.

Cleaning My Hard Drive

2006-07-07T16:36:00.000-05:00

I just finished a task I hate to do. I had to go in and clean the junk off of my computer. You know the stuff; cookies, trackers, garbage that if left unnoticed can affect my computer adversely. Now I know some of you are thinking right now that you don’t mess with the stuff or maybe that you have security software to take care of that. Well, you see a lot of junk files get past most security software and just sit there on your computer. Some are harmless, and others, while not dangerous, are annoying. You see I depend on my computer immensely. It has my music arranging software, my recording software, my Doorkeeper files… things that I would be lost without. So what does this have to do with worship, you ask?

Much like I depend on my computer’s well-being for my music endeavors, as a worshipper I depend on my spiritual well-being for my worship endeavors. I have my anti-virus spiritual software running, but I have to be diligent to clean out the “stuff” that gets by it. Little things that, while not necessarily dangerous alone, can be annoying, or build up and turn my attention away from my “home page”.

Psalm 24 says, “3 Who can climb Mount GOD? Who can scale the holy north-face? 4 Only the clean-handed, only the pure-hearted; Men who won't cheat, women who won't seduce.”

This is a verse I keep in mind when preparing to lead in worship. If I intend to lead others in worship, I know that I have to do the maintenance necessary to make sure I am “clean” enough to ascend the hill of the Lord. As worship musicians, leaders, and pastors we have a responsibility to keep an eye on the “stuff” that piles up.

Sign Police

2006-06-22T18:58:00.000-05:00

NOTE: This article, while probably a good idea, is intended to make us laugh at ourselves, and think about how we come across sometimes. Any sarcasm is strictly intentional.

I do quite a bit of driving. Living in Alabama (please stop laughing, this isn’t the funny part yet) I have ample opportunity to study church signs proudly displayed on seemingly every street corner. After seeing more than a few that made me go, “Huh?”, I decided that a license or some sort of training should be required to handle a sign. This license could be enforced by sign police that could revoke a sign license at any time. Now I know right now you’re thinking that I must be over reacting. The examples that follow are not exaggerations and are not pretty. Please proceed with caution.

He’s Not Here! He’s Risen!

Ok, this one is almost acceptable for Easter Sunday, when followed by the scripture reference. However, on a church sign in June, raises a number of questions about the church’s spiritual state. I mean if He’s not here, where is He. Now I realize this statement may be true of some churches, but this sign should be avoided if enticing newcomers is an objective.

Git ‘R Done For Jesus

Now I can laugh at the occasional Larry the Cable Guy joke as much as the next person. I’m not sure that the local church sign is the right vehicle for Larry, though. Now I suppose that if your church has Piggly Wiggly sponsor patches on the choir robes, or gun racks in the church vans, this rule could be voided, but I think for most part any Blue Collar Comedy is not a good idea for your church sign.

Great White Throne or Bema Seat: Which Judgment Will You Be At?

If your church is located on the campus of a Divinity school or in some town where the collective IQ average is just above the national debt, this sign probably works. For the rest of us however, if you got to explain it, it probably doesn’t work. Now before I get a ton of e-mails explaining the difference between these two judgments and the importance of the question, I passed my eschatology class in school; however, the average person riding down the road looking at your sign probably thinks your church is hosting a Star Trek Convention that will be judged based on one of two Federation Councils. Just a thought.

Don’t Let Worries Kill You. Let The Church Help.

Not sure any explanation is needed.

OK, so now that I’ve given you something to think about, e-mail me (or respond) with funniest church sign you’ve seen.

The Offices of Worship (Part 3 of 3)

2006-06-15T18:05:00.000-05:00

We have defined and discussed worship musicians and worship singers in the first two segments. In this third part, we will be looking at the role of worship pastor, and how it ties into the worship department. Worship pastor is an often-used term, but what exactly does it mean? I’ve been a worship pastor for a number of years now, and I must confess – even I’m not sure all of the time. Today, however, I’ll try to give you the best definition I can.

The Worship Pastor

A worship pastor is one who leads in worship or song, and also, to some extent, helps pastor those he or she leads.

Ok, it sounds simple, right? But sometimes we miss it at the foundation level. The bible refers to the position or office of pastor as someone who cares for the church in the same manner a shepherd cares for his flock. To tend, feed (in a teaching sense of the word), oversee, etc. A worship pastor not only leads in worship (he may write and sing and many other things that worship leaders and worship musicians often do), but he does so with the flock or congregation in mind. There are many practical illustrations of this. For example, a worship pastor is careful not to lead several new songs in a single service. A worship pastor recognizes that when the congregation is not familiar with a song it is difficult for them to concentrate on the actual act of worship. Of course at the same time the worship pastor should balance challenging the congregation and use fresh music as a vehicle to usher in an atmosphere of worship. Another example is key choice. Of course we all want to sound good! And we most certainly should do everything to the level of highest excellence possible! But when it comes to choose a key, a worship pastor thinks about the musical ability of the congregation. In other words, a Worship Pastor does things in a way the congregation can receive – a way that is comfortable enough for them to enter in without feeling inferior. We must take into account that we are leading. We must make the worship service relevant if we hope to lead the people we pastor to experience God in a real way.

Understanding the Task

The task of a worship pastor is quite often the unknown or nebulous part of the definition. Ask most worship pastors what their job requirements are, and you’ll get a laundry list of responsibilities. I’ve had responsibilities from cleaning toilets to handling electrical problems to installing the office computer network; but, as a worship pastor I learned (I’d like to say I always knew, but I learned it over the course of years) servant hood is the basis for everything in the Kingdom of God! If I cannot worship God with a toilet brush and a screwdriver on Thursday, can I effectively worship him with a microphone and a piano on Sunday?

The primary responsibility of a worship pastor is to help usher people into the presence of God. Notice I said help, because you can’t take someone where they don’t want to go. Too often we get too much credit when God moves in a service and too much blame when He doesn’t. The truth of the matter is this. The task of the worship pastor is to plan as if everything depended on us, and pray as if it all depended on God. When we begin to understand the enormous privilege we have to be entrusted with leading a congregation week after week into God’s presence, and (hopefully) seeing them grow, we can begin to grow into our role as worship pastors.

The Challenge

Ok, so what is the bottom line in all of this? As a leader, it is our responsibility to know the congregation which we lead. We must understand the makeup of the congregation in order to lead them. Anyone with musical giftings can lead singing; some who are skilled in leading can lead in worship; however, only those who have the heart of a shepherd can pastor in worship. As worship pastors we can do no less than lead, nurture, and feed those with whom we are entrusted.

The Offices of Worship (Part 2 of 3)

2006-06-08T20:53:00.000-05:00

In part one of this series, we defined the role of a worship musician. In this article we will look at the office worship leader. Remember, the purpose of this series is to explore these roles, as well as how those who oversee the people in these roles are affected. Again, while people will occasionally operate outside the giftings of their office, the department will function more smoothly when roles and expectations are clearly defined and the right fit is in place.

The Worship Leader

The definition of a worship leader is a worship musician who is skilled in and practices leading others in worship. Worship leaders exist both locally, in the local church body, as well as globally, in the church world at large. Worship leaders play a vital role in the church worship department both in leading the congregation in worship and in addition to contributing the flow of the worship service as a whole.

The Purpose

Worship leaders exist to lead people into worship. In a local church setting, the worship leader is usually the one responsible for heading up the music department, running rehearsals, choosing songs and leading the music portion of the worship service. These responsibilities coupled with either a job outside the church, or other duties in the church, can be overwhelming at times. Only when prepared and equipped can a worship leader hope to accomplish everything that is so often expected of them.

Outside the local church, worship leaders exist to bring diversity and fresh vision to the world of worship. Similar to the artists we spoke of in the last article, these global worship leaders are often recording artists. The difference here, however, is that global worship leaders not only incorporate worship music into their recording careers, but actually incorporate their recording careers into their worship leading. Such leaders contribute richly to the church by writing songs, leading worship at large events, and even mentoring local worship leaders. These leaders, when functioning in their role, serve the body of Christ in a special way.

Potential Pitfalls

According to a 2003 Barna research survey, the average church attracts less than 90 people each week. With that statistic in mind, the same average church of less than 90 people probably does not have the resources or the money to hire worship leaders that have been fully trained, or have experience. Quite often, out of understandable necessity, worship musicians (see previous article) are forced to fill the role of worship leader. While this is a necessary part of church life, it can lead to frustration on the part of the worship musician, the pastor, and even the congregation. Knowing and understanding this is the key to building a healthy worship department. Just because someone is a skilled musician, doesn’t mean they are a skilled worship leader. Just as learning to preach in way that builds the congregation takes training and practice, worship leading is a skill that must be honed. Learning one’s strengths, weaknesses, and giftings is the most effective way to become a complete worship leader.

Wrapping It Up

Having examined two offices of worship and studied the similarities and differences, we will next turn our attention to the office of worship pastor.

The Offices of Worship (Part 1 of 3)

2006-05-31T21:44:00.000-05:00

This is the first in a three part series looking at different offices (or positions) of worship, for the purpose of exploring the different positions needed in worship and the roles they play. These offices are present in most church music settings and all play vital roles in corporate worship. Sometimes one may find themselves having to operate outside of their office due to department need or lack of other options. While this is an often a necessary occurrence, if it is continued too long or without understanding, it can lead to frustration for everyone involved.

The Worship Musician

First we will look at the role of worship musician. The worship musician is a singer or instrumentalist who uses their gift to worship the Lord. Worship musicians exist in most church music departments, and play a vital role in corporate worship. Some examples of worship musicians are members of a local church worship team or band and recording artists who sometimes record music in the genre of worship.

The Roles They Play

Worship musicians exist to aid in leading a congregation in worship. The singers provide the full sound that enhances the atmosphere of worship, as well as making the congregation feel as if they are not singing alone. The instrumentalists provide the musical bed under the singers, which helps create an environment conducive to joining in. Having led worship in churches for a number of years, I can tell you that skilled worship musicians are an often under appreciated, but are also an invaluable asset!

Recording artists that serve as worship musicians also are vital to the local church. Quite often the artist records or writes a worship song that receives radio airplay. This enables church parishioners to hear and learn new songs. Also, the artist’s CD’s and DVD’S provide opportunities for people to experience worship in a personal setting. Worship artists serve the local church, as well as the global church.

Wrapping It Up

As you can see, the role of a worship musician is found in virtually every gathering of believers and serves a great purpose. The value of any role is always increased when we understand the position and the expectations involved.
Next week, we will look at the role of worship leader, and how the position of worship musician interacts and sometimes intersects with it.

Secular vs. Sacred

2006-05-24T21:03:00.000-05:00

In the church world, there is (and has always been it seems) the debate over what is secular and what is sacred; particularly in the fields of art and music. My question is why? If God is the creator of all things (Isaiah 40:28) then where does our classification fit into the equation? What follows is not intended to suggest my opinions are absolutely right, simply to cause you to think about the topic before you instinctively dismiss something because tradition dictates.

Set Apart

One argument made by those who condemn the use of “secular” music in church settings is that we are called to be set apart. While I wholeheartedly agree that God has called us to be set apart, He has called us to do so in our lives, not simply our music. I can remember in my youth that the movie theater was considered an evil place where Christians shouldn’t attend. Now, we host events there and encourage our parishioners to attend family-friendly movies. God has called us to be “wise as serpents and harmless as doves” (Matthew 10:16) meaning we are to be able to recognize the enemy and yet be able to reach those deceived by him. If a song such as Van Morrison’s “Have I Told You Lately that I Love You” for example, adequately expresses our feelings toward our Savior, should it be disallowed, simply because it is more widely known in a secular setting? Is it truly a matter of the song not being set apart, or is the fact that the vessel delivering the offering is set apart? I believe the ultimate answer is found in prayerful consideration of both the worship leader and the pastor, who is the spiritual overseer. Is it not more wrong that we sing a “sacred” song with dirty hands or pridefulness, as opposed to singing a “secular” song with a broken spirit before our King?
I know, some of you are arguing that I am making an unfair comparison. Obviously, a “sacred” song with a right heart is the goal; however, in reality we are clay vessels that are imperfect, and are not always broken and contrite. As a musician, I understand all too well the struggle to lead people in worship, with excellence, and yet remain truly humble. Any of us who are honest with one another and ourselves must admit that only a concentrated effort keeps us from becoming prideful. Too many times I have heard worship leaders/singers leave the platform with such comments as, “we were really on today”, or “wow, we sounded pretty good”. While it is nearly impossible to have no opinion on our musical “performance” (for lack of a better word) - it is only a small step from there to prideful or spiritually harmful thoughts.

Causing Others to Stumble

Another argument against using “secular” music is that using such songs can cause someone to remember their past that could be tied to such musical memories. I know that memories tied to music are strong; however, do we not run that risk every time we use an illustration or current event in church? Does mentioning September 11 in a service, not risk causing people who may have lost loved ones in the attack to question God’s love or comfort? Are there not countless possibilities of the enemy being able to use someone’s memories against them? I know that sometimes my hardest struggle is remembering all of the times I’ve failed God. Admittedly, there are possibilities of this being a concern, but just as many examples I’ve seen allow people who are unchurched to express love and adoration to God in a way that makes sense to them. As worship leaders, that is our primary responsibility, to help people experience God in a real and personal way. This is why it is imperative that we know whom we are leading in worship. Obviously we can’t know each congregant personally, but we can understand the dynamic of the area, and the personality of the church. This coupled with diligent prayer can help us navigate such difficult questions.

So what is the Difference?

So is there a difference between secular and sacred? How do you classify a band such as Lifehouse, who are on a secular label, are played on secular stations across the country, yet they consider themselves worshippers? How about an artist such as Bob Carlisle? He writes beautiful songs to and for God, and yet some of his biggest hits have been wedding songs (Butterfly Kisses) or country hits (Why’d You Come In Here Looking Like That)? How about Delirious? Some of their songs are used in worship in churches around the world on a weekly basis. However, they have toured with such bands as Bon Jovi and Bryan Adams. Is their music tainted or less spiritual as a result? Shouldn’t secular and sacred be determined by our hearts, and not by the label we place on something? If I tell God, “I love You”, and then tell my wife the same thing, is that not mixing secular and sacred.

Music is simply a tool. I own several tools. One is a hammer. That hammer can be a blessing if it’s used to build a house or it can be a curse if it’s used to do harm to someone. It is not the hammer that is different, but the person wielding it. Is not music the same?

Cain's Offering

2006-05-18T17:51:00.000-05:00

Ok, so in modern worship circles, I’ve often heard the quote, “There is no wrong way to worship God.” Having spent 17 years as a worship leader, I may have even used this phrase at some point in the past. My question is this. If there is no wrong way (except for the obvious sinful practices of the wicked), how do we explain the goings-on of Genesis chapter 4? In Genesis 4:1-7, we read, “1 And Adam knew Eve his wife; and she conceived, and bare Cain, and said, I have gotten a man from the LORD. 2 And she again bare his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. 3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. 4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering: 5 But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the LORD said unto Cain, Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shalt thou not be accepted? and if thou doest not well, sin lieth at the door. And unto thee shall be his desire, and thou shalt rule over him.”(KJV)
I should note I used the King James Version simply because it is not copy written, thus requires no royalty to use. Anyway, here Cain and Abel both offer sacrifices to the Lord, from their respective professions. As a herdsman, Abel brings an animal sacrifice of the firstborn, while Cain the farmer offers fruits and vegetables. Abel’s is accepted and Cain’s is rejected. Why and why does it matter? Well, as to the why, there are two major theories I’ll look at. As to why it matters, we’ll get to that in a moment.

Theory of animal sacrifice
One of the prevailing theories of God’s rejection is that of Cain’s offering being unacceptable due to the fact that God required an animal sacrifice. While you will find no mention of instructions on sacrifice prior to Genesis 4, it is somewhat implied in Chapter 3 after the discovery of sin, Genesis 3:21 states, “Unto Adam also and to his wife did the LORD God make coats of skins, and clothed them.” The use of animal skin as opposed to the fig leaves that they had, implies that animals were sacrificed to cover their sin. Now assuming Adam passed this information onto his sons, Cain would have known that animal sacrifice was required, and his fruit offering would be unacceptable. This, of course, would contribute to the obvious lack of faith referred to in Hebrews 11:4. By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts…. If Cain willfully disobeyed then his offering was rejected for obvious reasons.

Attitude Condition
The other major theory refers to Cain’s heart condition concerning his offering. The idea is that Cain offered his sacrifice with pride and arrogance that prohibited his offering from being accepted. Again, this would explain the Hebrews 11 reference, and also give insight to his fall again to sin later.

The Problem
The problem, at least from the perspective of proper worship, hinges on which of these is true. If Cain’s sin was one of attitude alone, then the gift was not the problem, meaning God would have accepted, and more importantly will accept, different types of offerings. If, however, Cain’s sin was that he offered the wrong type of offering, is it not conceivable that God requires from us a certain offering of worship? Now please hear me, I am in no way implying or referencing a style of worship is preferred by the Lord, but rather our worship itself. If God was so particular that He rejected Cain’s offering, and is the same yesterday, today, and forever, does He require a specific offering from us?

What’s Your Point?
I know, so where am I going with this. Too often the church today (that’s the people not the building) is passing more and more things off as acts of worship. Both our public and private worship is becoming increasingly more self-serving in its nature. I know that we are under grace as opposed to the law, but Jesus did not do away with the law, but rather fulfilled it. This is not dealing with sacrifice as a means of salvation, but rather worship. I do not intend this to set some new precedence in worship, but rather to challenge the true worshippers to evaluate their offerings in light of scripture. If we as worship leaders do not question ourselves, rest assured others will.