Artisans of the Lord

As Artisans of the Lord, How do we prepare for Holy Ground in the Worship environment? Aside from all the practical and environmental aspects of Worship, ie., time, place, location, technical, vocal, instrumental etc., How do we prepare to create an environment that is Holy? How can we craft and carve a moment out where God’s presence will be made known to those in attendance? Do we just ramp up the crowd with some ear pleasing melodies, familiar lyrics, pounding music and excited team? Recently I’ve been doing my devotions in the book of Exodus. I am fascinated with the Tabernacle, its furnishings and sacrifices. I find every bit of them declaring Jesus and our walk. Recently I read Exodus 35:30-35 which speaks of two men called and anointed by God to be the artisans and craftsmen of the furniture housed in the Tabernacle. This furniture was to be exquisite, intricate, elaborate and very costly. It was all made of the finest wood, and covered in precious metals of copper, silver and gold. One aspect of the directives given by God regarding the crafting and construction of all the pieces was that it be made exactly as shown to Moses or those making it would be in danger of dying. I certainly would have had great hesitation with such a dire consequence if I had failed. It got me wondering how they felt, how they were able to accomplish such a daunting and imperative task. It stands to reason that they were talented, previously having metal working and wood construction or carving experience from the work camps of Egypt. Perhaps, but that could cause its own pride issues which they may have thought so highly of their own ability they would have ‘added’ or ‘detracted’ from the original plans given. Regardless of talent and expertise, there had to be an aspect that I could draw from. After all, being a worship leader, we are creating and crafting an environment where we seek to display through word and song the glory of God. Expertise is not a sole source for such a responsibility. So what would have prepared them, protected them, provided understanding and wisdom for them? The two craftsmen named by God were Bezalel and Aholiab.I looked up the names of Bezalel and Aholiab in the Hebrew and think I found the answer. The Hebrew translation of their names give a tender understanding of where their ability came from and an encouraging directive for each of us as worship leaders. Bezalel, means, In the Shadow of God. How awesome is that! To be in the shadow of God, to be close enough to hear His whispers, His heart beat, His footsteps, His instruction. If I am in someone’s shadow, I am close to them. Aholiab, means, In the Tent of the Father. To be that close to God, to be in his presence and fellowship, to taste the goodness of His table. One would come to know intimately, and with great tenderness the heart of God, the plans of God and the purposes of God. Operating from that place, we each have the ability through prayer, and seeking truth in His word daily to craft opportunities and environments where the glory of God is displayed through leading worship. I am continually convicted to be close enough to know I’m in His Shadow, to be close enough to say I am engaged in the Tents of My God. I know when I haven’t been, I know what those worship moments are like. They are contrived, hollow, conjured up and empty. Fortunately, we are convicted by His Spirit not condemned. We are able to repent as leaders and fellowship a fresh, in the tent of our God close in His shadow. Isn’t that where we as worship leaders want to be?