(Note: This post is actually a devotional I wrote and shared with the worship team this past weekend. It is definitely focused more at those who serve in worship ministry, but the principles are good questions for anyone. Feel free to use it with your worship team if you would like. And be honest…)
When we gather to rehearse and lead worship for the church, what is our expectation? What is your personal expectation? What is your expectation for the team, the congregation, the service, the songs, and so forth?
We all have expectations. They are an inherent part of us, often shaped by past experiences, things we’ve seen or done or heard, our hopes and dreams, and sometimes other people’s expectations. They can be appropriate or inappropriate. They can be challenge us, terrify us, mobilize us, immobilize us, or empower us.
So, what are our expectations? Do we expect to play the songs perfectly? Do we expect the congregation to sing loudly and raise their hands? Do we expect the congregation to engage. Do we expect to be able to demonstrate our own particular gift or ability and the latest riff? Do we expect to be able to wow people with how well we play and sing together?
Take a minute and think about it. What are your expectations each time we gather as a church. Each time we serve as a worship team? What are your expectations as you serve this weekend?
(If doing this with a group, have everyone share something.)
What about when our expectations are not met? What happens then?
Do we expect God to show up? Do we expect Him to speak to us and reveal His glory to us? Do we expect Him to draw us together as the Body of Christ? Do we expect God to be in our midst, enthroned on our praises, and guiding His people? Do we expect to remember and experience the goodness of God once again? Do we expect (and pray) that people will come hungry and seeking God?
The Psalmist writes in chapter 5:
Give ear to my words, O LORD, consider my sighing.
Listen to my cry for help, my King and my God, for to you I pray.
In the morning, O LORD, you hear my voice; in the morning I lay my requests before you and wait in expectation.
And then later he writes:
But let all who take refuge in you be glad; let them ever sing for joy. Spread your protection over them, that those who love your name may rejoice in you.
For surely, O LORD, you bless the righteous; you surround them with your favor as with a shield.
May we always expect God’s goodness and His glory as we gather and serve. May our heart expectations be righteous in the Lord’s site so that our excellent offering may honor Him.
Pray that any expectations would be aligned with God’s heart and focused on Jesus.
