“Behold, I make all things new.”
-Revelation 21:5
I served in two consecutive positions in music ministry in which my predecessor had been in place for three decades. The first was as a Catholic school music teacher. The beloved previous teacher had just retired after thirty years in the position. The second was as the first paid music director in the thirty-year history of a parish. Previously, music ministry had been covered by a small team of dedicated volunteers.
Being “the change” in both of these positions was challenging. Trust needed to be gained. Relationships needed to be developed and nurtured. Systems needed to be put into place.
The music itself was different, and people were not afraid to let me know. Tempos will always be too fast or too slow for someone. Music selection will inevitably be different than it was before. Even the physical space in the classroom or church will signify change, if chairs or instruments are rearranged.
In both of these positions, I learned an important truth.
I would never be able to please everyone.
And I needed to be okay with this truth. If my intention in implementing a change was to better glorify God through the ministry, then I considered it valid.
A new song will only be new to someone once.
Thankfully, I had the best ally and guide I could have ever hoped for: the Holy Spirit. Each time I planned music for a liturgy, I began by asking the Holy Spirit to help me choose the right hymns for that particular Mass, and for the people who would be there. Because of this, I trusted the choices. Whenever a parishioner approached me after Mass and mentioned that a particular hymn spoke to them in a special way, it served as a confirmation.
Thank you, Holy Spirit.
Change is not always easy, but it is often necessary. When implemented prayerfully and with humility, it can bring greater glory to God.
And that is the purpose of ministry.
Holy Spirit, thank you for guiding me as I strive to share the message of God’s love with the people around me. Please continue to speak to their hearts, and to mine, through the music that you share through me. Thank you for the amazing privilege of serving as a conduit for your grace, love, and peace. Amen.
“Sing a new song unto the Lord; singing alleluia.”
-Dan Schutte
