Last week, I said that we music directors must repeat songs.
Why do you think that is the case?
One reason we should repeat songs more often is that the impact of a song is affected by its context. Here’s what I mean.
A different combination of songs will bring attention to different truths from the same song.
The beauty of many of our songs is that, though they may have just one theme, they contain many thoughts pertaining to that theme. The song may be about grace, and stanza one is about grace in redemption while stanza four is about the return of Christ. Stanza three might point to grace that is given during trials. The song before or after, depending on its content, will affect what is already in the congregants mind when they sing this song or after they sing this song.
Due to this fact, a different combination of songs will bring attention to different truths from the same song.
Again, don’t be afraid to repeat songs. Repeating will help the congregation internalize the songs they are singing.
As you plan your next worship service, consider using a song you have sung recently, but pair it differently than you did last time. Take note of how it affects you and what thoughts come to mind that didn’t last time.
Have you seen the impact of songs being affected by the surrounding songs in a worship service? Comment below.