I like leading congregational music.

This is not so much a statement of revelation, as it is a personal reminder. For years, I have enjoyed being a part of an awesome choir that genuinely loves to sing as a ministry. I occasionally sing with a quartet, an ensemble, or my family (which I especially treasure). However, at various times I have the opportunity to stand in front of our church and lead the singing. There is nothing quite like encouraging a congregation to sing with passion, especially when the song is actually in my vocal range. While our hearts and songs are focused on heaven, the sea of voices directed toward the front of the auditorium make the congregation sound like one magnificent choir. Corporate worship is a wonderful sound that is difficult to replicate elsewhere. God is exalted and we are heartened through corporate praise from a grateful church.

While I am on the subject, I love great hymns. Songs of testimony like “It Is Well With My Soul” give this redeemed soul the opportunity to “say so.” The great hymn of praise “How Great Thou Art”directs my attention to the only One who truly deserves it. “Wonderful Grace of Jesus” is a musical treat (especially for basses) that proclaims the good news of salvation to anyone who will listen. A recent addition to my favorites, “In Christ Alone” is a song of assurance that traces the Gospel from death to resurrection. It even reminds us of the blessed hope of Christ’s return. What more could we ask of a hymn?

Hymns are not the sole musical form in my spiritual catalog. In fact, I am listening to Sons of Korah sing Psalm 121 as I write this. However, hymns are uniquely designed to fulfill a spiritual need in our Christian walk. I cannot imagine leaving them out of my musical world or ever wanting to.

Col. 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.