Hey russ, I think the disconnect for me is the difference between being a leader and just being an artist. I see all team members as leaders. They are very visible. The expectations of time and commitment is higher than other volunteer positions. And they sing/teach the Word. These are things that demand high expectations.

Requirements is the wrong word. When a task is thought of as something that is binding or hindering, requirement is often the word used. In this case, I see them as expectations. Expectations assume that certain levels of involvement or commitment will be sought after. Are they always achieved? No, but there is an expectation that we will be working towards certain goals. Does this mean a person is fired/let go if these expectations are not achieved? Depends? What is the motive of participation? Is this a constant issue? I would never kick a person off of a team, because they struggle with saying hello to strangers. but I would expect that they are working towards healthy relationships and community within the people they are leading. Two very different things.

I see where you are coming from and that there is hurt from issues in the past. You said, "It doesn't empower me to minister better, it only drains the life out of me." I am assuming that this is directed toward "requirements" you were given. Because reaching out to people can and will help minister better. And it may be exhausting at times, but never life draining.

I would echo what Fred is saying here and continue on by saying...

To be a worship team participant, this is a necessity. The "bridging of the gap" between stage and congregation is crucial. To not participate in this, in some fashion, is to leave aside a huge aspect of what we do as leaders. I would go as far as saying, go find another place to play music. Playing music is only one aspect of the worship ministry.

Some people are outgoing, some are not. Thats a given. But all can love in some capacity. An extension of who we are from the stage, needs to take place. Whether inside the walls or outside the walls. They are both crucial. To be one person inside and another outside, defeats the purpose.

Are we supposed to know everyone? Become friends with everyone? Hardly. But, we are to be accesible and available. Ministry is based completely around relationship. Relationship, in every stage, is messy and difficult. But so fruitful. And our goal here, is to lead people to the God we serve. We cannot do that, solely, behind a keyboard or a mic on stage.

I am so blessed to have you...

So grateful for all of you. Thanks you for loving on me and my family.

We are truly blessed!

Love this! Love you!

Love that my blog is still involved :)

Thanks Carl. Good thoughts. And I appreciate the compliments!

I think you just answered it. You write to express, yes. But, you write to be a voice. And, I believe you do it well.

So, be faithful with your voice and steward those who listen.

Brat...

"Where else is there to seek absolute truth?"

Completely agree.

But, how about general creative/knowledge inspiration?

"Also, we still need to have our fight on multi-sites =)"

Oooh, I wanna be a fly on the wal for that one...