It is difficult for me (and I’m sure I’m not alone here) to imagine a world without music. Music is everywhere. You might hear the singing of the birds outside your window or enjoy the songs and tunes coming out of your stereo. Even your own heart beat is music!
Music is a huge part of many cultures and religions. For me, music is almost my entire life. I teach music (most of the time), I play in bands for fun as well as for worship, and I have the privilege of running the largest Cadet band program in the country during the summer.
I use music to motivate myself, to calm down and to comfort myself, if and when needed. It is a wonderful gift that has been given to us! In fact, I personally think it is the second most precious gift from God next only to the gift of Christ himself.
Music has always played a big role in The Salvation Army—our worship and outreach ministry. It brings people into the church, closer to God and enhances their worship experience.
The Bible mentions music numerous times telling us to “Sing to him, sing praise to him” (Psalm 145:2), and “Sing to the Lord a new song” (Psalm 98:1). At various times there are references to instruments that have been used.
I often wonder what the Bible would say if brass bands existed back then! One could argue that a brass band does make a joyful noise! Speaking of brass bands, I must admit that I am a huge fan of this sort of ensemble. I often think and ask myself, “am I a fan of brass bands because of The Salvation Army, or do I love worshiping at The Salvation Army because of its use of brass bands”? For me the two are interlocked, but I know for certain that although the band is my main outlet for ministry and service, I would still soldier on if it were gone.
As big a band geek as I am, and many who know me would not likely believe I am saying this, I must say that I do love the more contemporary forms of musical worship we use as well at Oshawa Temple. We have a great worship team that leads us through a wide variety and selection of the newer and not so new contemporary praise and worship songs. Not only that, we have a tremendous up-and-coming youth worship team too! These kids are absolutely wonderful!
If you’re reading this and you don’t already have a church home, and music is also something that interests you, I encourage you to come and check us out! There is always room. God bless!
