Theme: “HON PHEKLEK IN” [Psalm 139:23-24]
Opening
Reading of passages from the Scripture - Psalm 51 (special emphasis on verse 10) and Psalm 139:23-24 (the theme of the programme). The hymns chosen for the morning were Hon peel ken, Pasian aw kei hon entel in and Hon siamthak nawn in.
Discussions
Pastor N Tuang Lang led the discussion on the theme with references to Psalm 139:1, 139:23 and 26:2 to bring out the importance of giving ourselves over to the Lord like David did, for David had known only well that the Lord was familiar with all his ways.
The importance of the Worship Team is paramount in the spiritual service of the Church. When we do not allow ourselves to be searched through by the Lord, there is dearth of spiritual food for the people. The Worship Team is an instrument that can help the people find God and open channels of blessing to them, while at the same time, it can hinder people from getting closer to God. Obstacles abound in our serving the kingdom of God. One needs to read the Holy Bible, our spiritual food, and pray more in the name of Jesus, for that is the best weapon with which we shall overcome obstacles.
Quiet time and sharing
Each of the Team members took turns drawing Bible verse slips and reading it out. Half an hour of quiet time for meditation and personal prayers was observed. ‘Sharing’ from the Pastor, Mr Muan, Mr Khailun (ZCF Worship Leader) and Deacon Chinsum followed.
Motivating one another
Deacon Chinsum, Worship Team in-charge, talked about Faith and Patience, based on the story of Abraham [Genesis 12:1-3]. Abraham waited for and answered to God’s calling and set out from Ur. In the very same way, Worship Team members have set out from their “comfort zones” too. Micah 6:8 tells what God requires of Worship Team members which is, not their “convenience” but their “commitment.” In order that we may gain something good in the name of the Lord, we may have to lose something too. One needs to trust in the LORD and not on one’s own understanding [Proverbs 3:5].
Ms Rody Za Lien Sing contributed to the discussion:
# Do not say you are young. The creator of all things is the Lord our God. [Psalm 27].
# The Lord does not call the qualified; He qualifies the called.
# Whom do you want to please?
# Two categories of worshippers: those who truly and whole-heartedly worship the Lord, and those who are loud and hollow like the Pharisees.
# The Lord is to be praised all the time, even in times of sorrow. One’s conduct around people and places is a form of worship too.
# Conceit is spiritual cancer. Humility is a requirement to be able to truly worship God.
# Singing is essential to make the church lively.
# Worship is not a performance.
# Music has time and generation. Appropriate blending of traditional and contemporary styles in church worship is important.
# Response of the people must be observed by worship leaders.
# “I surrender all.” This “all” is not 50%, not 99%, but a full 100%.
Sharing and others
Mr Khailun took up a brief moment to share his testimony, referring to the Scripture on Colossians 3:23 and John 6:9. Then everyone present paired up to observe a pray-for-your-partner before a quick worship rehearsal for the following Sunday.
Closing
Pastor H Biakson closed the Orientation programme with a benediction.
-By H. Kamlianmung
