I have to admit, I am really excited about what’s in store for the rest of the summer. Though I have been busy, summer can be those times of chilling’ and laying back to relax … actually REST comes to mind =) For me, there has been a bit of rest — rest in my soul, rest through working (yes, it can be done!). But more so, sometimes it’s a call to rest in His presence — even for just a bit.
One of the ways that we are practicing “rest” in our church is by having an ALL ACOUSTIC worship service. Now by Acoustic, I don’t just mean acoustic instruments (guitar, upright bass, etc.) but literally UNPLUGGED 😉 Allow me to explain.
Our church is pretty typical of a church plant in Southern California. We meet every Sunday morning in a School in North Oceanside, setting up chairs and sound equipment and, well, everything for one service at 9:30. It’s a really great dynamic, being able to set up and serve in that way. But it’s also a lot of work — we decided about a month ago to try to really peel things back.
The message was about being able to focus in and rest in God’s Presence — no distractions — and we came to the thought that one of the ways we could do that was have the service completely unplugged. No microphones, no “sound”, no media-shout, NOTHING! completely “old school” (for lack of a better description). A chance not only to challenge our church family with the experience of a different service, but also (since we are a plant) letting our volunteers who tirelessly set up sound and the technical aspects of our service, REST.
Needless to say, Our church loved it. Our worship team did too ~ There really is nothing like singing “campfire” style with just your voice and guitars with your church, encircled around you. The presence of God is there ~ after all He sings over us, no matter what kind of music we make =) I challenge you to do the same.
Zephaniah 3:17
New International Version (NIV)
17 The Lord your God is with you,
the Mighty Warrior who saves.
He will take great delight in you;
in his love he will no longer rebuke you,
but will rejoice over you with singing.”
Living By Grace Alone, waiting for Heaven, my Home,
~a~