While employed as a preacher, I lived from Sunday to Sunday, knowing every weekend I had to be ready for that one day a week I worked. One person observed that for preachers, Sunday was like giving birth to your latest child, only to discover on Monday morning that you were pregnant again!
For just over three years, I’ve not had to worry much about my “A-game” (if I ever had an A-game). But occasionally I get tapped for worship leadership and I feel the stress all over again. Such is the case this week.
Had a good rehearsal last night. New bass player … did a good job. Considering we only play together “once in a blue moon” I was pleased. We’ll work out some vocals Sunday morning during sound check. But I tell you, I feel completely out of my element leading worship these days. Were it basically an acoustical set, singing songs we sing and know, that’s one thing. But that’s not the “thing” here, so I stress out probably more than I should.
My nephew, Steven, from Florida (son of a guy who once maintained a blog – cwinwc) played with us. He’s a very special kid in our lives.
Got home from rehearsal, took a much-wanted shower, and had a first call. Got back home about 11:40 and had no problem falling asleep. We had three first calls yesterday, which keeps us busy and is good for our type of work, and are expecting another any moment.
This one I regret. It is a dear sister in Long Beach. Been fighting cancer (valiantly and with a wonderful spirit of Christ throughout the ordeal) for a couple of years now, but her fight is just about over. When the phone rang last night, I was expecting it to be a call from there. I hope that call doesn’t come Sunday morning as I want very much to be able to go over there when the time comes to pick her up.
I pray Cindy has a peaceful exit from this life to her forever home. She needs the rest.
I pray God will use us on Sunday to create an atmosphere of praise so that people can freely enter into a spirit of worship. (Is that even biblical? Shouldn’t we always be in a spirit of worship … our lives a sacrifice of worship?)
I’ve been reading Mark lately (having just more of less gone back through the entire New Testament … amazing how quickly the church found itself over-run with legalists who were destroying the faith of those people). I can read these days without having to think of a sermon. Or an angle for a sermon. Or an illustration. Or how to keep this under 30 minutes!
I am praying that I can once again become lost in the mystery of God. Not trying to understand. Just trying to stand. In awe. So that my heart can continue to be shaped into that of Christ.
I have a L O N G way to go in that respect.
Meanwhile, Sunday’s a comin’.
leave it with Him, and he will give you the words!
what do ya mean about CW did he quit the family (blog)
I wish I could be there to worship with you! I am sure God will fill you and all will experience his presence!
Glad to hear Steven got to come out for a visit. Give ‘em some more of that Lynyrd. May your music and luncheon be blessed.
Peace.
Greg – You’ve ALWAYS got your “A-game” going, brother! And, you will again Sunday because you seek God’s Spirit in all you do.
Wish Tom & I could be there, too! Maybe you could bring some of that worship spirit and music to Picayune! Of course, I have no idea where you would be able to share it, as I’m not sure the “brethren” could handle anything like it. ha!
Cheers! And, have a most blessed Sunday!
Dee
“I am praying that I can once again become lost in the mystery of God. Not trying to understand. Just trying to stand. In awe. So that my heart can continue to be shaped into that of Christ.” (Greg)
I love how you phrased this! I will just say, “Ditto.” (Wishin’ I could be there to experience worship with you on Sunday. In a sense, I will. Geographically no, but spiritually, yes.)
I like the way you lift up Cindy by saying she needs the rest.
I’ve struggled with my guilt about being somewhat relieved (and not so much grieved) when my mother died – but now I know that “she needed the rest.” Thanks for that phrase. I’ll be praying for you, and Cindy’s family. And that you do indeed get lost in the mystery of God – it is a great place to get lost.
“I am praying that I can once again become lost in the mystery of God. Not trying to understand. Just trying to stand. In awe. So that my heart can continue to be shaped into that of Christ.” (Greg)
I agree with Connie’s response and also “ditto” for my life to be shaped into that of Christ. God has blessed you with being a gifted speaker and putting subjects into prospective for us. I pray His blessings for you in all that you undertake.
Good encouraging words bro – we resumed our SNC last night to a good crowd and a good playing together groove.