April 2010

Called to Worship

Robert Nordling of the Calvin Institute of Worship once told the story of taking his five-year-old son Jackson to a young friend’s birthday party. Jackson is all dressed up and brimming with excitement and enthusiasm as he rushes into his friends’ house to join in the festivities.

Draw Near To God

As everyone knows, our nation is currently experiencing a significant economic crisis. It has impacted us all – businesses, ministries, employment, investments, resources. Our recent CCLI church survey confirmed that church budgets have also definitely been impacted by this economic crisis. Church income is down an average of 10 – 15%, with many churches experiencing an income downturn as high as 50%.

Why Call It Worship?

Quite some time ago I was preparing to present a worship seminar at a church. As I was setting up my equipment, the minister of music assisted me. At one point he casually mentioned, “I’m so glad you’re here. The people of our church seem to have the idea that worship equals the sermon and the sermon equals worship. To them, there are no other variables. I’m hoping you can help them see a broader picture.”