Like setting new year’s resolutions, this is the perfect time to think about goals for our choirs and music ministries. Just consider how blessed we are to start afresh, with renewed passion and purpose, to serve the Lord through music!
I encourage you to set aside time to consider where your music program might need to grow or change in the coming year, including the musical, spiritual and community aspects. Like the prisms on the New Year’s Eve ball that drops in Times Square, consider the different facets and perspectives that could inform and influence your goals. You may want to incorporate feedback from different sources, perhaps gathered from informal chats, or an anonymous paper survey, or using a free online tool like SurveyMonkey. Let’s not overlook the most important source of insight for our goals – that is, the Lord, Himself. Pray and listen with an open heart; see what emerges from Him and His word.
Armed with this insight, your main goals will be taking shape. To see progress made during the year, it’s best to make goals specific and measurable, and include any deadlines. In fact, while you’ve got your planning calendar open, it’s a good idea to reserve reflection time throughout the year to review progress. An hour every month or quarter is time well-spent, especially if you discern that a goal may need to change or there may be a need to shift focus, etc.
Once you have your goals created, be sure to write them down and avoid the diminuendo effect of new year’s resolutions that don’t last beyond a day or two. If these goals are important, post them where you can see them frequently, even daily. You may also want to consider sharing your goals with someone who can be your accountability and encouragement partner during the year.
So, as we begin a new year, bringing our songs of praise and love, let us “Sing to Him a New Song;” play skillfully, and shout for joy. For the word of the LORD is right and true; He is faithful in all He does.” (Psalm 33:3-4 NIV) While we may not know what lies ahead, we do know Him who is faithful and walks with us every step of the way. Let our new year alleluias ring out!
WorshipSongsOnline 