Musicians

David and the army commanders then appointed men from the families of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to proclaim God’s messages to the accompaniment of lyres, harps, and cymbals. Here is a list of their names and their work: [1 Chronicles 25.1]

I find it interesting that musicians were an integral part of Temple worship. If fact, these musicians included singers who actually proclaimed God's messages in song.

I see two things this speaks to us today.

First, it doesn't seem that the Church really recognizes the "office" of musician as it is implied in the verse above. I realize that larger congregations probably differ from smaller ones, but for the most part, musicians are 'volunteers' in the Church. In the largest churches, perhaps there is paid musician  or two in charge of all the other volunteer musicians.

Second, musicians don't seem to really recognize the importance of their role in public worship today. Sure, they sing songs and play instruments. but do they really grasp the importance of proclaiming God's messages? I am sure some do, but most are just "volunteering."

The bottom line is that music is integral in the worship of God. However, in modern worship, we mostly just sing songs that have risen to the top of the charts in the music business. Hymns are quickly becoming a thing of the past and, already, are non-existent in many congregations. Impromptu, unscripted, worship, based solely upon, let's say, the day's scripture, is rare.

Opinion: we need to carefully reconsider our attitude about music in the Church. Church budgets need to be adjusted to reflect a more serious approach to worship in music. Musicians need to be employed and therefore held accountable according to that employment (as ministers).

Father, help the Church today to re-visit the matter of musicians and singers...