This is the time of year when most church musicians get to "create" Christmas for everyone else! In the middle of that reality, don't forget that Jesus came for you, too! He knows your heart and doesn't love someone else more than He loves you. You are in His thoughts every moment of every day - even at Christmas!
Winton Marsalis muses, "Music...the greater you get at it, the harder it is to sell." Don't fall into the trap this Christmas of trying to prove anything, or gain greater job security. It's not about you and...it's all about you. God has placed a gift in you that a desperate and lonely world needs more than anything the gift of beautiful and God-honoring music of hope and joy. Enjoy your role! God is pleased!
Peace to you all,
Doug Lawrence
Twas the night before Christmas, and all through the land,
the choir directors and worship leaders were leading their band
of singers and players and ringers as well
in a joyful rendition of The First Nowell.
Which speaks across ages this most Silent Night
through those whose ministry leads people to light
from the darkness around them, the rule of the world
to the peace that by God in this world is unfurled.
On players and singers, on ringers and such,
go forth on this night many lives for to touch
with your message of Jesus who came to this place
to save us from sin through the Father's great grace.
This wish from us all at Creator this day
is for you in God's peace and great grace for to stay;
so go forth and go lead, and listen, and sing,
tonight is the birth of the heavenly King!
May the reason for the season be your guide and stay this Christmas...