For the average church attendee the Christmas season is about the pomp and circumstance. Get out the decorations, put on those itchy sweaters, and gather the family for a week or two of chestnut roasting and cookie bedazzling. Not even those pesky in-laws or second cousins can dampen the joy. For many, the Christmas season brings anticipation and warmth to the hearts of millions around the globe.
Unless, of course, you happen to work at a church. For all of those who count themselves among the technical and worship staff, the Christmas season can be bittersweet. There are videos to be made, stage renovations to occur, lights that need to be patched, music that needs to be learned and rehearsed and rehearsed again. In all probability, it's the busiest time of your year. Kiss your wife and kiddies goodbye and say hello to 60+ hour workweeks.
Make no mistake about it...this has to be done. This is part of the deal. It comes with the territory. Suck it up and look forward to Easter when all you have to do is hoist that giant cross up on stage and let the pastor do the rest.
But does it have to be this way? I'm not sure it does. With a little change of perspective, the season could become more...more than it currently is.
More than any other section of the Church's staff, the tech and worship team literally get to tell the story of Jesus. This may seem a little trite at first glance. But have you ever thought about this? We get to use our skills, time, and talents to display the worth and glory of the incarnate Jesus. And isn't this what God and all creation has been doing for all of eternity?
How long did the angels spend rehearsing and perfecting their chorus, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests." Hours? Centuries? Eons?
Though imperfect and clumsy, we get to join in the work that God has done, is doing, and will continue to do until Christ's return: Focus the hopes and hearts of mankind onto Jesus. Is there a greater honor or privilege?
Sure you have to hang those lights, but God gave birth to the stars of the heavens. Sure you have to learn those harmonies, but it was God who gave the gift of music. Join with Him as His creation communicates the glory of His Son. And join with your brother John in saying, "That joy is mine, and it is now complete. He must become greater; I must become less." (John 3:29-30) Learn from God and be excellent in all you do. And watch as the Christmas season changes from drudgery to joy.
