To Serve
The last phrase in the purpose statement of the Cedarville University Worship Program is “to serve.” This comes naturally for most of our students as they have already served in their local church ministry before coming to CU. However, it is often contrary to human nature; we would rather be served than to serve. It contradicts our musical/artistic disposition—we want the spotlight. Someone once asked Leonard Bernstein what was the most difficult instrument in the orchestra to play. The maestro thought for a second and replied, “Second fiddle.”
While we may want the spotlight, a worship leader’s goal shouldn’t be having a platform or being on the stage. Our job is that of serving God and serving our congregations. In doing so, we are following the example of Christ. Mark 10 records the story of James and John asking Jesus who could sit on his right hand and his left hand. Jesus let them know that these privileges were not his to give. As the disciples heard about this conversation, they “became indignant with James and John.” Wouldn’t that have been a fun conversation to have been a part of?
Jesus made sure to turn the model of looking out for yourself on its head when he said
Jesus called them together and said, “You know that those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be slave of all. For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many” (Mark 10:42-45 ESV).
We should not seek larger platforms or fame. We should strive to serve others as Christ came to serve.
I love what you had to say about Jesus turning the cultural standard for leadership on its head. I think this is especially impactful when we consider that Jesus not only shocked people with His words in Mark but also His actions. He was not one to simply preach servant leadership but to preach as well as embody it and live it out. This is such a beautifully painted picture of worship in light of obedience and servanthood. As you rightly put it, our job is to serve God and our congregation, with this being true it would lead to the conclusion that our potential for meaningful worship may be achieved in its highest form off of the stage and out of the spotlight and can be found in little acts of unseen service. The challenge that we face is to not let our words simply be words of agreement but to let our actions be our loudest proclamation of a deeper conviction.
I thought I understood servanthood, but this article pointed out something. I always imagined leading a band from vocals, and I have seen people lead a band and then play other instruments but didn’t fully understand why. I thought they were just comfortable leading the band, but not comfortable with leading the congregation or singing. But now that I’m thinking about it, these people were playing keys, rhythm electric, or even bass. They were leading the band, but not taking the potential celebrity status, glory, or recognition of leading the band. They didn’t want to be known as the person leading the band or choose any songs that highlighted themselves. They rather chose to lead a band that would lead people to worship God.
Now I’m starting to think I should train vocalists to lead the congregation in my church so I can step back and be in the band every once in a while… hmm.
I really appreciated how you framed the typical view of self often consistent with musicians with how the heart of a worship leader is to be in complete contrast to it. This entire removal of self truly speaks to the role of music and excellence in it as a mode of worship and ministry towards people. In a current culture where church worship teams are fighting to stay “relevant,” and worship leaders are becoming famous off of their giftings, this message is more timely than ever and calls for the individual worship leader to examine their heart in order to root out the areas seeking to serve self.
What you said about worship leaders wanting to have the spotlight is a very true thing. We often want to be seen but, forget the reason why we are on stage. Which is to serve others and our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. The passage you talked about with James asking Jesus who will be on His right side can be a clear representation f when people want the glory instead of giving all the glory to God.
This really begs the question of how can we live a life of servanthood? Paul says that we are slaves to Christ because of everything He has done for us. So living this truth and remembering it when something doesn’t go our way means we should humble ourselves like Christ did.