As I look back over a long life. I recently recalled a few changes that have occurred in the church.
In our late teens, my older brother and I attended an elders meeting, somewhat nervously, to ask if it would be possible for the church to purchase a piano to use for youth meetings. With plenty of “ammunition” to plead our case, we were surprised at how quickly it was agreed and with the help of one of the members, the instrument was installed in the small hall mainly used for youth work.
Some readers may recall the time when guitars were introduced. Sadly, in some places this was frowned upon, partly, I suspect, because the instruments were poorly played. It was my privilege, a few years later, to regularly invite a Christian couple to visit our Saturday Youth meetings, where the 12-stringed guitar was played superbly as they sang together.
Though my personal choice is to have an organ accompany hymn singing, I also appreciate that other instruments may be better, especially for many of the modern hymns. As an aside, I remember an occasion when I took a visiting missionary to a church where, unfortunately in this case, the excellent organist was away. An elderly lady was seated at the organ, and the first, a very well-known, hymn was announced. The opening bars were played, but not recognised so she played her tune and the congregation sang the hymn to the tune associated with it.
As one who admits to being slow to learn (even accept) the music for some modern hymns, I have found it more beneficial to read the words and concentrate on what the writer is sharing. And that has proved much more enjoyable and beneficial.
The phrase at the head of this article is taken from Philippians 1:18. The apostle Paul, after writing about the motive of some preachers, then states in this verse, “But what does it matter? The important thing is that in every way, whether from false motive or true, Christ is reached. And because of this, I rejoice. Yes, and I will continue to rejoice.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, please help us to concentrate on what you are using gifted writers and musicians to share with us. May we quickly overcome any initial adverse reaction if it is likely to cause us to miss what you want to share with us. AMEN