I've been thankful for this season of simplicity in our church. We are on week 6 of simple times of worship, consisting of less instruments, more hymns and old choruses, and more corporate prayers. Today’s corporate singing, along with an acoustic guitar and a piano was:
Psalm 103 - A Psalm of Thanksgiving
1. For the Beauty of the Earth (Thank You -new chorus)
2. God is So Good
Psalm 138 - 3 sections with 3 corporate prayers read aloud together.
3. Spirit of the Living God
4. Sanctuary
5. Jesus, You Are Worthy
6. Holy, Holy, Holy
Pastoral Prayer
Timeless truths, modern choruses, and a new Song from our hearts were all on display in this gathering time. We've intentionally created space to sing, pray, remember, and listen to Lord in this series "Simply Pray." I love how these weeks of “less,” have actually created “more” in my heart.
Each week I've been surprised, as I've wrestled through the liturgy of song choices, scriptures, prayers, arrangements, etc...Each week I've wondered if it might fall flat, or if people would be sick of this stripped back, less "normal" rhythm we've been resting in; Yet each week, God meets us in a fresh way...I've heard of how God has used each week, but I've loved watching God move powerfully with less. I've loved seeing and hearing our congregations passionate adoration, without the drive of drums or guitars or loops. The volume hasn't lessened because the fire in our hearts burns brightly for Christ. May our worship's flame grow only by the object that is Christ the Lord, and not our instruments, decibels, or Choruses.
Thank you Lord, you have been so good.