Wednesday, September 26, 2012

Sometimes, I Wish . . .


I am thrilled to be one of 28 bloggers participating in the Blog Hop, "Sometimes I Wish . . ."  Sending out a heartfelt thank you to Momme for her introduction and link to my post here.  You can visit her at Mommetime and show her some love!


My husband, Danny, and I help lead worship every Sunday at our contemporary praise service.  Sandwiched between two traditional services, we are so busy setting up equipment after 8:30 church and breaking it down as the 11:00 worshipers are filing in, there is, regrettably, no time to mingle and chat with the faithful members and visitors who attend our 9:45 offering.

Sometimes, I wish we had more time to meet and greet . . . 

Ours has never been a heavily populated service.  Methodists are, for the most part, still fairly old-fashioned when it comes to worship.  They want their songs from the hymnal.  They find comfort in ritual.  That's okay.  We realize our service is an alternative not everyone will like.  We joyfully offer it to those who do.

Sometimes, I wish there were more folks in the pews . . .

We have four band members, three of whom have hectic and, at times, unpredictable schedules.  This makes it difficult for us to get together for practice.  Danny is always learning new material and is anxious to bring new songs to  the congregation.  How is that possible when the four of us can't get together?

Sometimes, I wish we had more time for practice . . .

Pastor Wallace reminds us of all the lost and hurting souls in our community.  How do we reach them for Christ?  How do we let them know this contemporary service is one filled with warmth and welcome?  Overflowing with unconditional love?

Sometimes, I wish our music could be broadcast to the street as people drive by.  Offering the invitation to come.  To find healing.  To find peace.  To know joy . . .

Sometimes, I wish.  We wish.  But, wishing alone doesn't cut it.  Because wishes without action, without goals, remain unfulfilled pipe dreams.  We can wish until the cows come home, but if we're not willing to put our money where our mouths are, what can we expect to change for the better?

So, this summer, we stop wishing and start planning.  Danny brainstorms with the our clergy and music director.  These are some of the concrete ideas which transform wishes into reality.

Sometimes, I wish we had more time to meet and greet . . .

Service time is changed from 9:45 to 9:55.  Members are encouraged to arrive at the old time so we can share in conversation and refreshments.

Sometimes, I wish there were more folks in the pews . . .

We order a large banner which advertises our service, now renamed "The Way", to place near the street.  This will allow thousands of people to know about our service.  They just might decide to give us a try . . .



Sometimes, I wish we had more time for practice . . .

Danny sends Rob, our bass player, and David, our drummer, links to the new songs he wants them to learn along with chords and lyrics.  Everyone practices on his own time.  When we gather for warm-up on Sunday mornings, we give it a run-through, and we're ready to go!  It's simply amazing how well this works for us.  There's nothing like the professionalism of seasoned musicians!



Sometimes, I wish our music . . .

Well, no, we haven't taken it that far yet.  But, we are hopeful that the banner will draw in the lonely, the curious.  Those who have given up on traditional worship.

We hope they might find our path is the right one for them . . .

The right path.  The one where we stop wishing alone.  And, find hope in God's promise of a life fully and meaningfully lived.  The life He has chosen for us.

Sometimes, I wish we would wish less, and do more.

Do more for others.  Do more for the Lord.

And, should you wish to listen to our musical offering, you may do so at our site.  May it fill your heart, your mind, your soul, with joy!


I'm honored to pass this Blog Hop torch to Mary Hudak-Collins.  In her blog, "Living With Food Allergies and Celiac Disease", click here, Mary not only shares amazing and delicious gluten-free recipes, but also pearls of wisdom in how she and her family cope with the challenges of growing teens and how she is meeting their unique needs.  Hope you will tune into her blog tomorrow!

52 comments:

  1. Doing more for the Lord is something wonderful. I am so happy to know that you and Danny are worship leaders. I just love the ministry that worship leaders are called to do. At the same time I realise the amount of work that has to be done - so much time and energy has to go into the preparation for the service to go on well for the worship leaders set the tempo of the entire service.

    Loved to read this wish which is no longer a wish but a will.

    May god make you a blessing to many people and generations.

    Joy always,
    Susan

    P. S: Am I the first?

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  2. Yes, Susan, the first to leave a comment here. :) Thank you for coming by and leaving your thoughts. Not everyone understands exactly what goes into this type of service preparation, and I'm glad you are familiar with the work involved and have shared it here for other readers. Work or no, though, it is ever a labor of love and a privilege to serve the Lord in this way.
    Blessings always!

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  3. Awesome Martha and Danny! I checked out yours site and will spend some time listening to the songs.

    I was writing my wish(es)... oh well, and I read this :P I reflected on your post and I discovered that when I wish I should include God in it. Then it bears fruit because my wish has a soul.

    Love love love you Martha!

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    1. Love, love, love you, too, Melissa! Thanks so much for stopping by today!
      Glad you liked the songs and will give them a listen. Danny has worked diligently to get our website loaded and working. I'll let him know you are visiting there. :)
      Oh, yes, our wishes should never exclude the Lord. He must be in all things . . .
      Blessings always!

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  4. I admire your desire and love for the lord Martha, your posts always inspire me! I personally am not interested in any contemporary service, if I go to a service I love the tradition. So many people may just not be interested and that's ok. Continue what you do, you are a beautiful person inside & out!!!


    www.thesocialfrog.com

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting, RoseAnn, and for your kind words here.
      Yes, many do prefer the traditional services. It was how I was raised, too, and it did take me a while to get used to the differences. Now, of course, I simply love it!
      Blessings to you!

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  5. Martha, I love the photo of you and Danny with your praise group. I'm sure you create lovely music together.
    Wish wish wish...maybe this is where the term wishy washy comes from. Anyway, you've inspired me to stop wishing and start doing. Rolling up my sleeves...
    Love,
    Leah

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting, Leah, and for your kind words here.
      I never thought of wish as it relates to wishy-washy, but it makes perfect sense, doesn't it? Glad this inspired you to roll up those sleeves! :)
      Blessings and love!

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  6. Martha, I am amazed at how much I've come to enjoy and look forward to your posts. I have what I like to think of as my personal beliefs about spirituality, yet I am VERY cautious about who I share them with... I have a thing about organized religion and God talk, you've helped to expand my OKAYness with it. Don't get me wrong...I believe... it isn't God I have a problem with, it is people... you've penetrated that barrier. I guess it helps that I believe when something is meant to be it will happen and for whatever reason I was meant to find you... your words inspire me.


    I heart this... "Because wishes without action, without goals, remain unfulfilled pipe dreams." ...so true!

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    1. Oh, Amy, your sweet compliment has truly floored me. How gratifying it is to know that my posts touch you so deeply.
      You are definitely not alone when it comes to believing and trusting in God, just not organized religion. That's one hope we have with the service, The Way, that we will reach those for whom "church" has left a bad taste in their mouths.
      And, yes, nothing happens by accident, my dear! :)
      Blessings to you!

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  7. Such a beautiful post Martha... AMEN to your wishes.

    Though I have never witnessed such a thing, but your post gave me a virtual tour as if I was with you doing all this preparations for the service..:)

    Loved it!!

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting today, Me! Glad you enjoyed the post.
      Yep, it pretty much sums up how we get ready for our service and clean up for the next. I'm so glad, now, for the extra time at the beginning of our service to mingle with the congregation. So many wonderful folks!
      Blessings to you!

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  8. I love your last wish, Martha. "Sometimes I wish we would wish less, and do more." I agree with you.
    I don't think this journey of life would be interesting and worth it if we get everything we wish for, just like that! Working daily towards our wishes is what makes the journey worthwhile.
    Keep it up, Martha(and of course Danny). The Lord is your strength.

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    1. Thanks so much for stopping by, Luchi!
      I'm so glad you like that last wish. Indeed, we cannot wish our lives away, nor, as you said, is it necessarily a good thing to get everything we wish for. God knows best and will give us what we need all in His time.
      Yes, we will keep on keeping on with the Lord to uphold us!
      Blessings to you!

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  9. I love the artistic, creative side of you, Martha that you merge so beautifully with your practical faith. Your openness and sincerity helps you to find a way out of many situations, that others might views as handicaps. I can see that you and Danny are a wonderful team, and I pray that both of you continue to draw people to God. ♥

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  10. Glad to see you were able to get through and visit today, Corinne! Thank you so much for you kind, sweet words . . .
    Danny and I are so blessed to have this ministry, and are so appreciative of the opportunities God has laid before us.
    Thank you, too, for your prayers that we can draw more people into the church and into a relationship with the Lord.
    Blessings to you1

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  11. What you are doing to the Lord and the community is commendable. Beautiful post as ever. Love and wishes.

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  12. Thanks so much for coming by, Janu, and for your kind words.
    Yes, as I said to Corinne, we are so blessed to be able to do this for the Lord. We never take that for granted!
    Blessings to you!

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  13. I might be jealous that you have more than one talent, singing and writing! I am an amazing listener of music, does that count? :-) You've a gift and continue to touch many.

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    1. Thank you, Brenda, for visiting a leaving such a sweet comment. Yes, listening does count! :) It means you are a lover of music and have a heart for it. How wonderful music can stir our souls!
      I hope and pray to touch as many for the Lord as He allows.
      Blessings to you!

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  14. Martha, things always seem to work out eventually...remember, no matter what we wish shall always be in His time, not ours :) Thank you so much for the beautiful introduction. So glad I looked at the calendar because I truly thought the 27th was Friday! LOL Boy, that would have really messed everyone up...

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    1. Thanks for coming by, Mary! It was my pleasure to introduce you and I'm really looking forward to your post. Glad it will be on time. LOL! You can't imagine how many times I checked and double-checked the date for mine. Whew!
      Blessings always!

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  15. Dear Martha,

    I love this inspiring post about putting feet on your wishes and prayers! YOU are a Wonderful role model for all of us! Thank you for all that you are! XOXOXO

    Is there somewhere I could listen or watch your band perform online?

    I'd like to share it at https://www.facebook.com/DangerousLinda

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting, Linda, and for your sweet compliments. Yes! We do need to put wishes into action before they can come true.
      As far as listening to our music, there is a link back up in the post which should take you to our website. Let me know if that doesn't work, and I'll resend it.
      Blessings to you!

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  16. I loved this post! It is so inspiring how you walked the walk and instead of wishing for things to happen took measures to make them happen. You have such a beautiful heart. I pray your pews become packed! And those in your area that need encouragement come and find peace.

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    1. Thanks so much for coming by today, Jessica, and for your kind words here.
      It is my hope and prayer (and wish) to pack those pews with the very people who need the Lord the most. With His blessing, it can happen. :)
      Blessings to you!

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  17. What a PERFECT post of wishes put into action, Martha! I'm glad you thought of putting that large banner! It makes people become more aware. I do hope more people will join your service and be blessed!

    God bless and much love to you, Martha! <3 <3 <3 :-)

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    1. Thanks so much for stopping by, Irene! So glad you liked the post.
      Yes, it is our hope that the banner will attract the unchurched or those just seeking a new place of worship. There are so many folks in our community who do not have a church home. :(
      Blessings to you!

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    2. Ooh... will be praying that many will listen to God's call. <3

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  18. Service to the Lord is the ultimate service. I hope your pews fill up fast. Blessings to you and yours.

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    1. Thanks so much for coming by, Suzy!
      We feel so blessed to be a part of His ministry. It is humbling to say the least. And, with you, I hope those pews fill up fast! :)
      Blessings to you!

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  19. I enjoyed this post. All of your wishes are selfless and an offering to others...and your wishes may well make those of others come true.

    Be well,
    Ron

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    1. Thanks so much for coming by, Ron! Glad you enjoyed the post.
      Oh, I do hope our acting on our wishes will make those of others come true. What a blessing that would be!
      Blessings to you!

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  20. wow! I got anxious just reading this. Great solutions, sounds like you have plans, then the working hands will make things come together.

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    1. Thanks for visiting, Cathy!
      Oh, we sound so much alike. I tend to get anxious when I allow myself to worry, but have found that the best remedy is to look for and pray for the solution. We are praying these changes will bring many seekers into our service where they can learn about Christ's love for them.
      Blessings to you!

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  21. Your posts are always such an inspiration , Martha. I loved the way you and Danny turned around your wishes into action. Most of us wish but never act on making that wish come true. As you rightly said that those wishes just remain pipe dreams. We need to have the right energy and determination to make our wishes come true. Thank you for sharing this, my friend

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    1. Thanks so much for stopping by, Rimly!
      Yes, we can wish our lives away, or we can stop and figure out how to make those wishes come true. So glad this post inspired you!
      Blessings, my friend!

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  22. It must be tough to be worship leaders Martha and I so admire you and Danny! Thank you for sharing with us and have a blessed day!

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    1. Thanks so much for visiting, Nelieta!
      There are times when it isn't easy, but we love it and are so blessed in this ministry.
      You have a blessed weekend, my friend!

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  23. WOW woo hooo.. I am familiar with most of your praise music.. I have been part of the creative arts team..worship and praise choir for 10 years...this has always been my connection with God.. it was one person..who sent me one tape..that led me to one church...that led me to being saved and baptism......I am also for the first time this year singing in a sanctuary choir (presbyteriaan)(hymnals) for Christmas... the people come...are found and saved not just by one wish but by many.. and also very important... slow down ..chill a bit...patience is a virtue...things happen for a reason and god is in control..even in days of struggle I am reminded of the music and why I am there...... grace and peace to you and your sweet church...I love you ..As always...XOXOXOXO

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    1. Thanks so much for coming by, Bonnie!
      Oh, what a beautiful testimony you have shared here! I think it's wonderful how the music is ultimately what has connected you with God and given you joy and peace even in the midst of your struggles. Singing and playing instruments can be so cathartic and healing. Hope you will always continue to be involved with your church's music ministry!
      May God bless you and your church, too!

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  24. What can I say Martha other than I love you? I don't really know you but the beauty of your writing is that I feel like I do, and you are an amazing lady! Just keep doing what you are doing-
    Blessings,
    Kim

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    1. How can I thank you, Kimly, for your all too kind words? Thank you for reading my posts and for leaving such encouragement and affirmation in your comments.
      Love and blessings to you always, and look forward to seeing you here again. :)

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  25. Oh, wow, how didn't I spot this until now?! Insane. I'm so sorry.

    I agree with you - I wish we could wish less and do more. Action, action, action. Action is very important. I will listen to your music when I have some free time, thanks for sharing!

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  26. No need to apologize, Dave, just happy to see you here!
    Yes, we need to take action if we want our wishes to even have a chance of coming true. Do hope you like the music!
    Blessings to you!

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  27. I used to be in my dad's choir and always singing in Church. Sometimes I wish I can go back to those days.....

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  28. So glad to see you here, Nikky - thanks so much for coming by! Singing is such a vital part of worship, isn't it? I'm glad you've had that choir experience. I hope you'll be able to participate in one soon.
    Blessings and prayers, my friend!

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  29. Hello, Martha ...
    Pleased to meet you and also pleased to read this lovely post.
    Faith is a wonderful tool ... have Faith that you will all be able to put these ideas into action ... and even one person drawn in from the street is one more soldier for God.
    With respect, Pat.

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  30. Pat, please accept my sincere apology for not seeing this in an eon! Would love to stay in touch. Yes, we are still praying for our service as we have much competition from Sunday school and a Saturday evening contemporary service.
    And, so true - one more taken from the street can become a stalwart Christian soldier!
    Blessings to you!

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