The last few times that I've led worship at my home church, where I volunteer as the Worship Music Director, something has really struck me; worship leading no longer feels like work. In my time spent as a worship pastor (and still, when I travel with [engage] ministries leading worship with students from the University I work at) worship leading was draining, because it was work. I always felt responsible for "carrying" the volunteers on stage. I spent hours putting together resources to make learning the songs easy for the band and vocalists each week, then at our organized band rehearsal I would spend most of the time instructing the team, reviewing parts and correcting mistakes.
Things aren't the same with the musicians at my home church now. The band members I work with once or twice a month at my new home church all listen to, learn and know the songs before we meet for rehearsal. They have a desire to not only play a part and be in the band, but to give their best as an offering of worship.
I'm inspired by it. I'm privileged to work with such awesome people and I'm not going to forget this experience. It's also taught me some valuable lessons.
First of all, those type of volunteers do exist! There is no reason to settle for a decent musician that half-heartedly prepares. The worship leader does not have to carry the band. Your commitment does not have to fill in the gaps for everyone else's lack-thereof. Set the bar for your band by being upfront about your expectations and let them make the decision on whether or not their willing to commit to it.
Secondly, the impact for the church body and congregation is more powerful. When everyone on the team takes the role of "worship leader" seriously, the congregation notices it and is moved by it. When the band is engaged in the act of worship using their instrument, rather than just playing their instrument, the congregation can tell that their is genuine worship happening in the hearts of musicians and that they are not on stage for their own glory or recognition, but rather to give something back to God.
Finally, worship becomes more meaningful for you as the leader. When you know that the band and vocalists have your back and you don't have to be concious of the other parts while you attempt to effectively fill your own role, you are able to let go, be in the presence of God and experience the Holy Spirit in a much more powerful way. When your mind is occupied by the nuts and bolts of music, timing, chemistry, song structure, etc..., you are distracted from the very act of worship that you are trying to model for your congregation. Eliminate that distraction and experience the freedom it brings.
I realize that these lessons aren't something that is plug and play. But, I want to encourage you to not settle for a band that you have to drag along behind you. Set your bar high - excellence attracts excellence and the right pieces will come along as God sees fit.
