Last summer I had the opportunity of conducting a series of public evangelistic meetings in the large black township of Soweto near Johannesburg, South Africa. I learned that these fine people can teach us much about worshiping God. At the eleven o'clock worship service I experienced a very moving program. Limited finances may have prevented them from owning a piano or organ, but this in no way stopped them from worshiping in song by singing. Not only did they sing hymns at the appointed times but they filled in by singing during the vacant spaces of the service. For instance, during the intermission they lifted their voices to God in song. As the ministers entered, the congregation's voices became the organ and piano softly singing an appropriate hymn. While the offering was being received, again a hymn was sung expressing in melody their praise and gratitude for God's material and spiritual blessings. Following the benediction, the congregation broke out anew in a joyous rendition of "Blest Be the Tie That Binds" as the ministers went to the rear to greet the parishioners. All this singing was in addition to the regular songs at the appointed times and the special music that was given by a choir. This worship service was not only memorable but deeply moving to my own soul. I left with a warm glow in my heart, because I had actively participated in worshiping my God in a very special way through singing.
But in most of the churches I visit today, I find that more and more the members are becoming spectators. The church is rapidly becoming a theater in which the performers do their part. Even when a congregational hymn is sung it is often limited to only one. Any other music is produced by performers, not by the congregation. I have the feeling that if properly organized and if the hymns and songs are well selected, more singing and participation in worship would greatly bless our members and lift their hearts to God through songs of praise.
The human voice, singing from a heart made full by gratitude and thanksgiving to God, is more pleasing to Him, doubt less, than all the melody of all the musical instruments ever invented. Music forms an important part of the worship of God by the hosts of heaven; it will be a part of the praise expressed by those who cast their crowns before the feet of their Saviour as they sing the Song of Moses and the Lamb, described by the apostle John. Why, then, should we not accustom ourselves here to approach as nearly as possible to the heavenly harmony? As a part of religious worship, singing is as much an act of worship as is prayer. Indeed, many a song is prayer. Song is one of God's most effective methods of impressing the heart with spiritual thoughts and truth. Rightly employed it is one of God's most precious gifts, designed to lift the thoughts to noble themes, to inspire and elevate the soul. (See Education, pp. 167, 168.)
I challenge pastors everywhere to re vitalize the music and congregational singing in their church services and see whether members won't experience the rewards that come from enriched worship. —J.R.S.