Jubal’s Jottings

I have just read the book entitled REVEAL, which is the study that was done at Willow Creek, and 5 other churches.  The self-study has created quite a stir among the evangelical church world, since one of the monoliths of the mega-church world has looked inside of itself and found itself wanting in some significant ways.  At least they’re honest and willing to look…most aren’t!  It is interesting reading, to say the least!

The one area of the REVEAL study that I found most compelling for me and my world is one statistic related to worship.  While “compelling worship services” is named as THE most important attribute for those surveyed (page 105), it also points out (page 53) that of those who were ”Dissatisfied” with church, only 20% rated the services in the “outstanding” or “excellent” categories.  I would REALLY like to know more about what’s behind that statistic!  The study doesn’t elaborate on the subject, but it might well be something for a follow up study…which they say the plan to do in certain areas.  By the way, you can see some of the basic findings at revealnow.com.

So, Jubal, something tells me that they didn’t have opinion polls in your time.  Aren’t you fortunate!

One of my regrets looking back on my own worship leadership is that I didn’t create enough space for silence in worship.  I think perhaps at times I was even prideful at how much could be smashed into the period of time allotted.  I have discovered that as a pew-worshiper that I sometimes have to take a break and listen…since I’m out of breath going from one thing to another.  I find myself wanting to say, “Please, just let me sit and talk to God!”  The Good Friday service I attended provided this…thankfully.  Just a cross, a stained glass window, an acoustic guitar and piano, the taste of bread and juice, the Word of God spoken…and a place for me to sit.  It was good worship.

Jubal, did you ever just get to sit, look at the world, and talk to God?  I hope so.