Time. Something we feel like we never have or have enough of. But today we’re looking at the moments of time that we have and how we can find use and value in it.
It is so exhausting having to be somewhere at a certain time. Getting ready to get there, having to do something before your appointment or meeting and finally the one situation we all dread: running late. What treasure can we find in utilizing time properly and the reward and payoff in structuring our time you ask? Let’s look at three ways time management can benefit you, your team and your church.
Preparation: We usually have call time at 7am in the morning on a Sunday. We kick off soundcheck mostly on the dot. The time I normally arrive is around 6:40am. Why the extra 20 minutes? A few reasons.
I might have to set up my gear. Rather than showing up exactly at 7am and rushing to set up, I find joy in taking my time showing up about 20 minutes early to get prepared. Making sure patch cables and pedals are working properly, guitars are tuned and amps are dialed in. Your gear could work without an issue the day prior, but tomorrow is always another day and it doesn’t hurt to inspect your gear right before a gathering.
Also, we sometimes have to pass on our midweek rehearsals and show up on Sunday to rehearse. It is so critical to show up early enough to run through parts if necessary not only on your own but with other musicians as well making sure everyone is on the same page.
Fellowship: I believe that it is vital to commune and catch up with your teammates. Sometimes, I go a month without seeing my friends and before business I enjoy a little bit of hanging out over coffee, pedal boards and drums. Have some fun amongst each other, we’re all tired singers and musicians ready to serve so make it fun!
Fellowship builds community and togetherness and I pray that that reflects in your worship as your team storm the gates of heaven, hand in hand, arms locked singing with one voice.
Time to breathe: Fellowshiping is the best thing ever, don’t neglect time that you could use just you and the Lord. How ever long you need that to be. Take a minute to catch your breath, get your head in the game and ready for the day. Whether you’re playing one, three or five services, time with Him is the perfect cap to a rewarding early morning. We did the set up, we’re doing the fellowship and now, we give it all to Him. Tell Him that.
“Lord, all of our talents and all of our gifting, we hand over to You. Let us sing with one voice for Your glory and honor. Use us to shake the foundation of our city so that one day every tongue will sing and confess the wonder of your name. Amen.”
Time is not your enemy. It’s not your manager or your boss. It’s your friend who wants the best for you and all you gotta do is say yes and get moving.
-AO