As I was driving to Fort Worth last week, I was listening to KLOV one of my favorite contemporary Christian music stations. I really hesitate to stir up a hornet's nest, but feel compelled to ask how you feel about this.
Believe you me, I understand what a hot button this can be, and I also know there are two sides to every issue. Today's blog is what went through my mind as I was driving down the interstate. PLEASE know there are plenty of contemporary Christian songs that I like and enjoy. What I do not like is a steady stream of them during Sunday AM worship. Most Sundays I find myself struggling with the music. When you no longer have hymnals to see the music and only words flashed on a screen, it is virtually impossible to participate. There is certainly nothing wrong with introducing new music occasionally. But when trying new music becomes a distraction to the reason for gathering together, perhaps we should discuss it.
The hymns I grew up singing, and that have survived decades of worship have stood the test of time. Most of us are familiar with the time tested and proven great hymns of the church. Many of them we can sing from memory and at a very minimum immediately know them when we hear the melody. For the most part they are scripturally sound and never distracting from worship. I am transported to a time of worship knowing I am standing in the midst of the Saints including my ancestors who sang these same hymns over the ages. These beloved hymns point us toward God.
#1 Daughter I discussed this after my arrival. Interestingly this 30 something young wife and mother seemed to agree with me. She said there were some of the newer songs which seem to be standing the test of time, but for the most part she still enjoys the great hymns of her youth. It seems, at times, the performance distracts from the purpose as we sing the new songs of faith. I certainly know and understand the vast majority of the worshippers are much younger than me and they may feel the same spirit of worship from the new music.
Churches are trying to deal with this change in worship in a number of different ways. Some have contemporary and traditional services. Some are determined to change the style of worship. Here is a kicker I'll bet you did not expect ~ There is a movement among some of the young adults in the church to return to the time tested hymns and forms of worship. A turn around to the more orthodox denominations.
NOW--I know I have only touched the tip of the iceberg. I am simply stating my opinion. I heard a sermon not too long ago which admonished us to be flexible in our opinion of the choice of music. I do not mind being flexible, but I am hoping flexibility is a two way street. A wonderful compromise would be singing a variety of each style at worship. I also know and readily admit I am old! My generation will not be around forever, but would it not be a wonderful display of grace to acknowledge our preferences at times.
I promise you I am going to worship and do not think for one minute the type of music will prevent it. As #1 Daughter & I talked it over, we agreed meeting together comes in many different forms. We reminded ourselves that small groups look much more like the early church than the large corporate worship that has evolved today. PLEASE do not think I am condemning the church. We need the connection to the body and most of the time that comes in church. My closest connections to the body have evolved in smaller more intimate groups of yesterday. The style of music is not an essential element like the tenants of the faith are, and it is not a reason to walk away from the church. I am merely stating an honest opinion and am always open to your comments. Let me hear what you think.
"Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly
as you teach and admonish one another
with all wisdom
through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit,
singing to God with gratitude in your hearts."
Colossians 3:16
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As Danny and I helped lead our praise team at church for over a decade, there are many, many contemporary songs I love, Lulu, and do feel that most of those we sang were scripturally sound. However, I do love the old hymns, and certainly don't think they should be wiped away like yesterday's leftovers. Tradition doesn't always have to be abandoned for change. I agree, too, that I've gotten more out of small group sharing/study than I often got during a church service. It is like the original church!
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Thank you for sharing your opinion. I really think, most of us enjoy a blend.
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