I should probably write about what I know best, which is music.

When my inspiration runs dry, it’s where I go. We all have opinions, preferences of music. Worship and music can become a battleground in a congregation unless care and sensitivity are practiced. We realized that no one in a congregation will ever be completely pleased, all the time, with the hymns and songs that are picked out.

Here at Joy, being a musician, one of my favorite things to do is pick out the hymns for worship. I do this with Silas, our organist/pianist and his wife Melissa, our Handbell Choir Director. We do it on Facetime once a month for the upcoming month from the comfort of our homes. It’s fun to see how many we agree on. We use the same church-wide source of suggestions, chosen because they reflect the text and character of the Bible readings and the particular Sunday of the church year. Among other considerations are length, note range, and familiarity in the congregation. To my parishioners, I am sorry that we don’t do “The Old Rugged Cross”, “Amazing Grace”, and “How Great Thou Art” on a rotating basis. The words of the hymns are more important (or should be) than the musical notes. The hymns or songs we choose are also theologically correct, whether they be songs of lament in minor keys, or praise/uplifting “clap-alongs”. It is so pleasing when God’s people sing together! Our songs should be unifying, community-building. That being said, newer, less-familiar music can (and will at Joy) be carefully introduced.

We don’t always “hit it out of the park”, but we try our best to satisfy the spirit and soul of the worshiper. Giving glory to God is the primary purpose. Pleasing the crowd, taking requests, are secondary goals. Thanks be to God for the gift of music, and for His unconditional love that accepts our offering of thanks and praise.

Pastor Art