I'm writing this on the second day of Lent 2014. It's pretty early in the morning, and I'm still thinking about the significance of last night's Ash Wednesday service at my church. Ash Wednesday involves that ancient observance where we're reminded that we're all dust, and where we encounter the frailty of our existence. It's the first step in beginning our journey of repentance that characterizes the season of Lent.
Those who observe Lent – or at least recognize it – have at one time or another considered what they might “give up for Lent.” That's a custom derived from substituting one practice or habit or luxury for a more meaningful, significant alternative. Ideally, whatever is “given up” is replaced by time, effort or thought focused on and devoted to God.
Recently, the question occurred to me: What would happen if, instead of giving something up for Lent, I took something up for Lent? I guess it's pretty much the same principle – substituting one activity or attitude for another – but it's got a more pro-active feel. Maybe it's just the way I'm wired, but I like this.
On the days when I feel pretty good about myself, I begin to think there's really not much more in my life I'd want to take up, take on, or even take away. In reality, though, there are plenty of thoughts, actions and attitudes that need replacing. Something needs to be taken up, but I'm going to have to let some stuff go in order to do that. St. Augustine said, “God wants to give us something, but cannot, because our hands are full – there's nowhere for Him to put it.”
I've thought about that a lot as it relates to my role as Worship Pastor in my church. In and ideal, perfect world (where everybody involved attends every rehearsal and worship service, loves every idea I come up with, never has a negative comment or attitude to share, and to top it off is musically brilliant), I probably wouldn't think about this so much. But I don't live in a perfect world. Neither do you. And in the interest of full disclosure, it was a stark wake up call to reality for me when I first discovered that those on the “receiving end” of my ministry didn't consider me to be all that perfect either! Alas, we are all frail dust.
So, I've accepted the challenge to take up some things for Lent. It means I'm going to have to let some things go, but I think it'll be worth it.
I'm taking up an attitude of gracious acceptance. I'm cutting people some slack; giving them a break. Everybody's got baggage, and there's usually a backstory to what people say. I know, it can all be frustrating, irritating and definitely a hindrance to progress. But I've come to realize that the more hurtful, critical, or plain ol' crazy someone's words or actions are, the more deeply layered that backstory. It means I'm going to have to give up fighting silly battles in an attempt to prove I'm right, but I'm going be a responder, not a reactor.
I'm taking up the challenge to remember that the word, “pastor,” is in my title of Worship Pastor. In reality, this role relates to everyone in my congregation and it expands to ministries and concerns outside my little realm of music and corporate worship. And it incorporates some folks I don't normally deal with on a day to day, or even week to week basis. It'll probably involve some grunt work and some behind the scenes ministry that nobody will ever know about. It means I'll have to give up the “It's not my job!” mentality in order to take up a “What an honor to serve Jesus this way!” mindset.
And I'm taking up the challenge to do my part in making all the planning, rehearsing and worshiping – with all those I plan, rehearse and worship with – more significant than anything else they might do with their time and energy. I'm a believer in responsibility and accountability for those who commit themselves to ministry, but I want their involvement and their investment to be rewarding … fun even! I want them to feel deep down inside that their sacrifice and their commitment is worth it.
Finally, I'm taking up the challenge to take up the cross. This isn't an “Oh, I guess that's just my cross to bear” way of thinking. This is intentionally engaging in what I'd sometimes rather intentionally avoid. Just like Jesus did … intentionally, on purpose, of His own accord. Jesus was no helpless victim. He went to the cross willingly. This challenge will likely mean some tough decisions; some putting up with stuff I'd prefer not to put up with; some personal sacrifice. But we can't bear His image without bearing His cross.
I'm taking it up for Lent, and the journey's begun.
--Click here for more helpful articles from writer/arranger/director Marty Parks on the topics of spiritual development and music ministry.
