I went to the NAMM show last weekend and in addition to seeing a lot of very cool gear, I picked up a couple of Christian Worship magazines. It's interesting that 3 of the articles in one of the magazines were written by people I am acquainted with. That doesn't reflect directly at all on me except to show that I have had the good fortune to rub elbows over the years with some pretty accomplished people. That's Cool!
Most of the information contained in the magazines was of little value to me in my role as a bass player. However, there were two articles that spoke directly to me, especially at the point where I find myself today - with no home church to do my ministry, and no visible hope for one in the near future.
The first dealt with the "Bass Player Psyche". In it, Gary Lunn says, "Being blessed to have played with some of the finest musicians in the world (and some not-so fine), I have figured out that I almost always play more inspired parts whenever I am playing with inspiring musicians - and especially drummers. If I am not playing with a drummer who will lead with authority, steadiness, and consistency, it creates a struggle, because the roles are reversed. The added tension and added responsibility costs the band a right, solid foundation and everything becomes a challenge." He added, "Bass players have a sensitivity and perception of time (rhythm) unlike anyone else's in the band. They also have a nature to follow unlike any other band member." At this time in my life where I occasionally get to play with some of the finest drummers in the world, I really identify with his observations. The tension and struggle he talks about is so distracting and can be very discouraging.
Which brings me to the second article, dealing with "Building Teams". Heidi Todd relates her experience of being invited to be part of the worship team at the age of twelve. She shares, "The first worship leader to seek me out challenged my walk with God. The whole team kept prayer journals. We had accountability within the team and our leader. We were expected to come prepared and with the right attitude. He was committed to prayer, being in the word, fasting, prayer, and prayer. What a great beginning. It was natural to assume all worship teams were like that and I came away with a new level of spiritual discipline and work ethic."
I have to admit my first real worship team experience was similar to that. Unfortunately it wasn't at my home church. The desire of my heart is to be involved in an experience like that in my home church. Today that seems unlikely. But my hope rests in the promise of Luke 1:37, "Nothing is impossible with God."
