Wednesday

The morning began with Shannon Wixelberg walking onto the main stage, sitting down at the baby grand, and leading us into God’s presence. I was stunned by the quality of her voice, and her ability to seamlessly weave modern songs into timeless, age old hymns. She closed with a new song (this being the theme of the conference) that she wrote out of Hab. 3:17-19 after her husband was in a massive motorcycle accident. It was one of the most beautiful, hearfelt cries of someone’s soul that I have ever heard.

The first session that I attended was “Piano in Modern Worship” with Brian Steckler. This session was worth every single dime of my registration fee. He broke apart the unusual chord voicings in modern worship music that those of us who are classically trained can’t figure out. Then the part that meshed perfectly with my learning style was when he split screened the worship chart with a live web cam on the piano. Then I could visually follow along with the chord changes in “Everlasting God,” imagining what I might play, and see what he was playing instead. I was so excited to see this broken down in easy to understand, cookies on the bottom shelf kind of terms. I have sat in many workshops that were geared to piano majors and sounded like Greek, but this was absolutely perfect for my skill level. Now I can’t wait to get home and start practicing those new chord voicings and riffs. He also offered to email the powerpoint with the chord charts and live video out to participants, so I can follow along from the keys.

My second session was a songwriting class with Chris Tomlin. This session will have to get its very own blog, but bottom line, it was incredible!

Hearing Louie Giglio speak in the afternoon took on new meaning after hearing Redman and Tomlin talk about their respect for him, and how much he has poured into their lives and mentored them. Giglio talked about maintaining our focus during worship. He said that many of us focus on our performance, or on the people's response, or on our own coolness factor. Instead, we need to lead people in God's presence. The only way this is possible is if we are entirely focused on Jesus. When we stop worrying about all the external factors, and focus on Jesus, it is easier for our people to get into God's presence as well.

Giglio spoke from Col. 1:13- 24 about the power that lives within us because Christ lives within us. We can be assured that we have the power to accomplish kingdom purposes if we remember where our strength comes from. Then he showed us 1 Chr. 15:23 - a passage about doorholders in the tabernacle. We need to be doorholders in worship - holding open the door into God's throne room and showing people the way into God's presence. I loved this image, especially that doorholders are not seeking glory for themselves, but they are simply showing you the way. I mean, when was the last time an usher seating you at a concert tried to get you to notice how amazing they were?

The concert last night was unreal. Jonathan Lee, Laura Story, and Chris Tomlin performed. I had never heard Jonathan Lee, but he was incredible. I loved Laura Story. She was a very approachable worship leader, demonstrating humility and personal conviction on stage. I have been to many Tomlin concerts, but being in a room with worship leaders singing was incredible. I guess heaven will be like that - where everybody sings loud and on key!

One of the best parts of the day, however, was making new friends. It is amazing to hear from worship leaders from all across the United States. It leaves me with a fresh perspective on ministry and on how God is moving. I am greatly encouraged to hear how God is at work. I am looking forward to one last beautiful day.

Tuesday

This is an unpolished recollection of my day, before I forget the amazing moments. So it may be a bit more random than usual. And that's pretty random. When I get home, I'll try to add some polish and form. But here it is live for those of you who can't wait.

The morning began with Billy and Cindy Foote leading worship alongside Matt Papa. Wow and wow again. God's presence absolutely poured down on us all. By the end we were all on our knees. For the first time, I really thought about the lyrics, "And right now, in the good times and bad, you are on your throne, you are God alone. You're unchangeable, unshakeable, unstoppable...."

I really thought about God being king. He is on a throne. He is a king with a plan. He is not stoppable, no matter what my life circumstances may suggest. No matter what, his character is the same that it has always been. His plan WILL come to fruition.

Marcos Witt spoke from the story of the woman at the well. He talked about worship meaning, "to bow down." It is impossible to bow down if you are sitting on the throne. Who is on the throne in your life? There is not room for two butts on the same throne. You must get off and let God have the throne. Then if and when God sits on the throne, obedience becomes easy. God is in charge. Yes is always the right answer.

The first session I attended was "Mozart never played in a praise band." I left with some great tips about layering sounds, using a sustain and control pedal, using the cutoff filter, setting drum loops, and new, more simple chord voicings. I am anxious to get home and play with my keyboard. I met with a yamaha dealer today who showed me some websites that have instructional videos that will demonstrate the capabilities of my Motiff.

The second session was a songwriting session with Laura Story. We could totally be friends. She was very personable and down to earth. She professes to be a worship leader who happens to have written a few worship songs. I loved her four practical tips:
1) Spend time with God - personal worship is essential to songwriting
2) Spend time in your church - knowing their needs will give birth to new songs
3) Time by yourself (margin) - space in life is critical to being able to hear new melodies and lyrics. If you are too busy, you will not hear from God
4) Time with other writers - it's that whole "where 2 or more are gathered...." idea. Sometimes God completes your inspiration in another person.

Big publishing tip: publishing companies get stacks of demos they never play. Do your songs live any time you can - encourage other people to do your songs live - record and distribute locally - don't wait for a big publishing company to pick up your songs before you let them be sung.

Worship pastors are responsible for stewarding their people's gifts. Find and develop your people's talents. Don't be afraid of being overshadowed. The goal is glorifying God, don't let your pride keep you from building up your people.

For the third and last session, I attended a songwriting session with Matt Redman. I loved him as well. He was funny, humble, and easy to understand. He had some amazing tips as well:
1) Many songs have great inspiration, but could use lots more perspiration. Writing with others can dramatically improve your songs.
2) Be a songwriter 24-7. Always carry a notepad and recorder. God may give you a tiny inspiration that blooms into a beautiful song.
3) Write with others. A song that sucks may still have usable chords, melodies, or lyrics that another writer can help you develop.
4) Be aware of your church's heart and needs. Write the songs that meet them where they are.
5) Keep a list of words or phrases that strike your heart - those moments are from God - research scriptures with those phrases - you may find inspiration.
6)Respond to your environment and life circumstances.
7) What truths is God revealing to you in your personal worship time that you are not singing about? Write to those truths.
8) Be simple - but not stupid
9) Think out of the box - what to do when you get stale and every song sounds the same
a. What are your 10 favorite words in songs - don't use any of those
b. Try another version of the Bible
c. Switch instruments - try the piano, or try the guitar, or use no instrument at all
d. Cowrite with someone new.
e. Usually take your melody down? Go up instead. Find new harmonies, new chords, and new voices.
10) Capture your emotions - or it's just an essay.
11) Be so immersed in God that during times of stress, his words pour from your heart. That is true inspiration

Both Laura Story and Matt Redman totally harped on writing with others, in addition to writing alone. They both said that was the secret to some of their greatest songs. I thought that was interesting. It does make sense that the whole 2 or more thing would apply to songwriting, I just have never looked at it that way. I have often enjoyed writing with friends on the piano bench, but have not thought it critical. Matt said it is a great way to keep from realizing after your song is recorded, "oops, I stole this by accident." Your cowriter can keep that from happening.

My favorite part of the day? Meeting and networking with other musicians. I loved visiting with all the new people. I have mixed and mingled extensively, gathering new perspectives and new ideas. However, my very favorite part of the day was when I had the beautiful opportunity to pray over a new friend. I love that we can be strangers, and yet as believers still be intimately connected.

Up next - worship with Matt Redman, Tenth Avenue North, and One Sonic Society. Today has been one of the most incredible days of my life. I am excited to see what else God has planned.

New Song - opening session

Phil Wickham killed it in the opening session of the National Worship Leader’s Conference. Standing alone on a stage with his acoustic guitar, in front of thousands of worship leaders, he absolutely took us into God’s presence. I especially liked his spacing in worship. I liked that he left gaps between songs that allowed time to respond to what God was saying. It gave me an opportunity to spend time listening, not just singing.

The opening speaker, Steve Berger, spoke from his heart about a receiving a new song in the midst of great personal pain. Last year Berger lost his son in a car accident, and he shared with the audience his journey from Psalm 40:1-3

“ I waited patiently for the Lord to help me,
and he turned to me and heard my cry.
² He lifted me out of the pit of despair,
out of the mud and the mire.
He set my feet on solid ground
and steadied me as I walked along.
³ He has given me a new song to sing,
a hymn of praise to our God.
Many will see what he has done and be amazed.
They will put their trust in the Lord.

He brought out seven main thoughts on this passage:

1. The new song in this passage occurred during a time of great despair. We often want to celebrate in the joy of Christ’s resurrection, without realizing that is only possible after experiencing the fellowship of his suffering.

2. Sometimes the duration of our time of suffering is more than we would like or expect. We frequently want God to be a microwave, but character is not created in the microwave.

3. Supplication – the psalmist prayed continually. He cried out in hunger and pain for God. The solution to tough times is not within ourselves.

4. Salvation – Christ is the only salvation from darkness. Trying to rescue ourselves is futile. Waiting on the Lord is the best solution, the solution that will create character.

5. Destination – the pit is not our final destination. God intends to “set our feet upon a rock.” Be assured that God has a plan for your life and the pit is not the end.

6. Adoration – God puts a new song in your mouth as you more fully know him and grasp his character in tough times. Don’t let darkness squash out your understanding of God’s greatness and righteousness. His character is the same whether you are in a tough time or not. Continue to offer praise.

7. Revelation – New Songs are seen, not just heard. As your character is changed, it affects more than just your personal relationship with God. People around you also see how God is working in your life. Your life can become a revelation to those around you.

At the end of the service, Berger offered the opportunity for hurt and wounded worship pastors to come to the altar for prayer. I was saddened by the sheer number of people who came forward. Don’t misunderstand me. It is awesome that they are finding healing. The sad part is that many of those pastors are dealing with hurt inflicted by their churches. I remember being there. I am very thankful that I am now in a situation where I am free to serve in the ways that God has gifted me. I prayed desperately for those pastors last night. May God bring them renewal this week.

The Gettys closed out the night. I have to say that although I am not a hymn person, hymns done Irish style could grow on me. As the room full of musicians sang “The Wondrous Cross”, I was awed by the love of our Creator.

I am looking forward to another amazing day. I know God has big stuff in store.

Anticipation

The excitement is tangible at the National Worship Leader's Conference in Kansas City. Early arrivers are wandering the halls looking at exhibits, visiting with friends, looking at schedules. networking, exchanging ideas, and blogging.

Worship leaders from across the country are looking forward to a week of honing their skills, but also to spending time in worship. For most worship leaders and band members, this week will be a rare opportunity to release in worship. For an entire week, we do not have to contemplate playing the right chords, remembering all the lyrics, and gauging the response of our people. For an entire week, we get to be the audience.

For me, this is an exceptionally valuable opportunity. It is not often that a mom of four kids can travel out of state for a week long worship event. I am fully aware of the sacrifices that my husband is making so that I can be here this week. I am praying that God will rain down in this place. I want to fully experience his presence and leave renewed, refreshed, and rewired for ministry.

Worship begins at 7:00. Let the countdown begin.

Tomorrow

Clothes packed. Maps downloaded. Snacks purchased. Ice chest loaded with water. Lodging arranged. Car repaired.

It's time for a road trip. A road trip to Kansas City for the National Worship Leader Conference. However, for me it is much more than just a road trip to attend some amazing classes and listen to awesome speakers and spend time surrendered in worship. For me, this is about a journey into my future.

Playing keys in church since I was a young child, I sense the winds of change. I cannot quite figure out where God is taking me musically, but the journey seems to be starting here, now, in this moment. When I first heard about the conference, I never dreamed I might actually attend. For a church planter's family, the money for the conference was an astronomical amount. It is almost as much as we spend on groceries for an entire month.

My husband, Shawn, was at first strongly opposed to me attending. He would just be getting back from a 9 day trip to Mexico, and we would then be apart for another week, and then there was the money factor. I had not expected to get to go, saw the logic of his wise reasoning, and so I was surprised by my strong reaction. I was devastated. The more I prayed, the more I realized that God wanted me at this conference. He has an appointment with me there, one that is critical. I am absolutely certain of this. As we continued to pray for the next several weeks about going, Shawn somehow found the funds to allow me to be obedient to God's voice.

I don't know what to expect. I can't guess the end of this journey. But I am certain that this will be a monumental week. A week that changes me, that makes me more like Christ. I can't wait.

My name

In Genesis 11, the people of the world have united with a single goal, a common purpose. They are going to build a tower to the heavens, so that they could make a name for themselves. This was such an abomination before God that he came down and confused the languages and scattered the people so that such an event could not take place.

So what do we do as humans? We constantly try to make a name for ourselves. We seek to build our own empires from our own talents and from our own hard work and sweat and effort. We frequently unite with those around us to further our own personal goals. It is easy to be united around a tangible goal that is achievable in our own strength.

But then there is Genesis 12. God finds a nobody, Abram, and says, "I will make you into a great nation and I will bless you' I will make your name great, and you will be a blessing." God does impossible and miraculous things in Abram's life. Abraham becomes great because he is surrendered and obedient. God makes Abraham's name.

I have been thinking about this today. It is when we simply trust and follow in obedience, that God makes us who we are meant to be. When we try to short circuit God's plan and do it on our own, we end up scattered and confused.

It is when we are in that moment of total and absolute surrender that we can experience the most beautiful worship.

True Heroes

All my life I have daydreamed about a music career on stage. I wanted to bring music to the masses. That dream has certainly varied over the years. In my childhood, I pranced around on top of the furniture singing loudly and pretending to be Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. As my piano obsession grew in high school, I dreamed of playing with famous orchestras in large symphony halls. In later years, as my passion for worship grew, I fantasized about being "discovered" and getting to play on tour with famous worship leaders.

In college, I lacked the confidence to pursue a musical career and instead settled on a future as an elementary teacher. I was fortunate to stay home with my children for eight years, and I have now finished 6 years in the classroom. Even as a part of a very noble and worthwhile profession, I cannot make the music inside be quiet. It is a raging fire that desperately tries to claw its way out of my soul.

In recent months, I have been very torn about where exactly my future might lie as far as music goes. I am long past my prime of being "discovered" and don't know that I would even be willing to travel long hard weeks away from my children. Even if I was good enough.....

I have sought God without ceasing, and last night I finally heard Him speak. I don't know exactly where I am going with my future, but I came to an earth shattering discovery. I have waited for years to "be" somebody. I have waited for an entire lifetime to "make it" on stage. But last night I came to understand that perhaps I have my priorities way skewed. Jesus Christ himself came to earth, taught locally, discipled a few friends, and died on a cross. He did not have to be big or famous to fulfill His destiny. I think in America, we overemphasize the importance of selling CDs and being a somebody on the music charts.

Last night as God and I were wrestling, I realized that how many CDs I have or don't have has nothing to do with my value to God. The time and energy I invest in my congregation, however, has infinite worth. Every life that I touch, every person that I walk alongside, those are the things that are going to matter.

I am not belittling the influence of great, famous musicians. I am simply saying that becoming famous can never be the goal. Serving Christ must be the goal. I am also saying that I came to an entirely new understanding of the value of investing a lifetime within the local church. If I never use my musical gifts anywhere else, but I am daily digging into the deepest, darkest, messiest places of my friends' lives - trying to minister to them and help them love Jesus a little more, I think that is of far greater value than having my name up in lights.

I think as musicians, we have forgotten the real heroes in the musical story. The real heroes are the men and women that get up every day, walk into deep relationships, and change messy damaged lives. I admire many professional musicians who are also ministering within a local context, but there are also many that are simply traveling from one gig to the next entertaining the masses. Last night I wondered if maybe it takes a more courage to be a minister than to be famous.

Food for thought for me, anyway.