Rock shows and corporate worship
Last night, I went up to the Grog Shop in Cleveland to see MUTEMATH with my buddy, Josh Atkins. So, after an amazing bite at Dibella’s, we headed up to wait in line outside in some rain to get the best spot possible to see this band.
By the time we were inside, my feet were already killing me. As the people continued to pour in, the AC in the room was rendered useless and the small venue became a sweat lodge. Out anticipation was turning to frustration as the clock continued to tick past the supposed start time. I was hot, sweaty, thirsty, impatient, and my feet were so stinking sore!
Then, the LED stage lights kicked on. We could here live percussive instruments behind us… behind the entire crowd. It was Mutemath… they were all donning drums and random thing to beat on and were marching in to their own cadence. As they made their way to the stage, I forgot about the sweat on my face and the pain in my soles. The show was on!
This was our third time seeing MM and let me tell you, these guys put on a killer show regardless of the venue size. High energy… high talent and skill… high volume… and plenty of “unexpected” moments. These guys put their blood, sweat, and tears into every performance.
As they continued to blast on into their set. I realized something really cool was happening all around us. It’s something that happens at any good rock show. The line between the stage and the crowd floor was disappearing… the show wasn’t just MM performing… the show was all of us in that room together. This revelation was also exaggerated by the fact that they were on a small stage not 2 feet high and close enough to touch. During various songs, different members of the crowd (myself and Josh included) started some clapping rhythms that carried through the crowd. In one particular song, Paul (vocals and keyboards) pulled out this strange, electronic instrument he made that has a finger pad that manipulates a tone… he held it out to the crowd and those of us close enough got to try it! Water was flung from the stage to an appreciative, sweaty crowd several times… I think a couple times I actually got hit with a little sweat from one if not all of those dudes.
Why is all this stuff so amazing? Why do we get so jacked to go to the show of our favorite bands? Why is it any better than just listening along in the car or even watching a live DVD?
The answer is really simple: when you’re there, YOU ARE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER THAN YOURSELF! It’s about making memories… living in moments… experiencing something you love in a new way! It’s about community… coming together as a crowd… joining as one voice… singing or shouting at the top of your lungs. It’s about collectively throwing your fist in the air to the same beats!
Maybe you can see where my thoughts were going…
I’m a worship leader by trade. My job is leading people in corporate worship. I’m always looking for better ways to describe why we worship together. Why do we SING together in church? Why do we use lights, guitars, drums, keys, screens, etc.? Why not just do these things on are own, in private without all the ‘EXTRAS”. Why do I try to facilitate memorable experiences in the process?
I think it’s nearly the same answer as above. I’ll just go ahead and pasted it again:
The answer is really simple: when you’re there, YOU ARE PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER THAN YOURSELF! It’s about making memories… living in moments… experiencing something you love in a new way! It’s about community… coming together as a crowd… joining as one voice… singing or shouting at the top of your lungs. It’s about collectively throwing your fist in the air to the same beats!
I just need to add one thing to that answer. We do all the above in the name of JESUS! I would think that we would get even more excited to be a part of worshiping the Lord for who He is and what He has done than we would for just a rock concert. But… do we really get that excited when we gather for worship? Let’s change that together. This might be a good chance to start: Night of Worship
Jesus said that where 2 or 3 are gathered, He is with them. Let’s make it a lot more!
Catalyst is coming… and life is totally different
Wow… it has been a ridiculously long time since my last post. I think it was February! That is just inexcusable. Even if I did have a child, responsibilities at a major conference, a couple trips, and a new life to adjust to.
Ok… I’ve been busy, but I think it’s because God has been busy. Yeah… our daughter is just about to cross the 7 month mark. Wow… what a life changer! Makes me realize how terrible I am on my own and how much I need God to accomplish anything good in her life! Evangeline is amazing though… wouldn’t trade her for anything!
One thing I’m really stoked about is this conference: http://catalystconference.com/
Last year was my first time at Catalyst East and it was amazing! I was processing and utilizing the stuff I learned for the year to come! Now I’m even more excited for this time around. My life is different now. I’m not only a pastor and a husband, but I’m a father too! I’m excited to see how I digest the leadership teaching in a new way from my new perspective.
If you are a Christian and you’re in leadership of any kind (or if you just care about what Christ wants to do through your life), you should try to go to this conference. I believe it’s on the West Coast and in Texas as well. You will be challenged by the best speakers and leaders the church has to offer and even some from outside the church we can learn from. You’ll be inspired, challenged, convicted, empowered, and encouraged. The corporate worship is great and very focused. Plus, there is a TON of fun stuff going on all the time like these guys: http://trippandtyler.tv/ I’m actually hoping to meet them this year.
Anyways, I’m excited about what God is doing in my life, in my family, in my church, and our world. As I learned last year, tension can be healthy when it leads to greatness. This year, I learn to BE PRESENT.
I hope to see you there.
Rethinking accountability: Act vs. Active
Last night, the guys and gals in our small group split up and met at different locations. Mainly, we were talking about the areas of lust and purity. As I sat there with my brothers discussing the subject, we began to talk about accountability.
As we breached the topic of accountability, we talked about the typical, set meeting where we show up and admit to whether or not we messed up and move on. Eventually, we almost get accustomed to admitting some “mess up” without specifics or listening to someone else’s confession and never really moving beyond it. Sometimes, this “act” or “event” of accountability even enables our wrong thinking because we get comfortable with the fact that “every one else is struggling with this too… so, it’s normal”. Does this kind of accountability really work? At some point, the light bulb began to click for us around the room. Maybe we need to look at accountability differently.
I think there are 2 ways to view accountability. The first is to view it as a singular act or event. The second is to see it as an ongoing, active process and way of thinking. Speaking from experience, I know we men tend to fall into the first category. We view accountability as an act. A one time event that we go to and leave from. Sure, it may be every Wednesday or every other Monday, but as far as accountability is concerned, we’re only accountable at those events when we practice the “act” of accountability. Usually it goes something like this: A couple of dudes show meet up at a specific time at a house, restaurant, or coffee shop. Then, they’ll small talk for a while or cut straight to the chase so they can get it out of the way and talk about other stuff. They’ll probably have a list of questions or a few areas that they know they’re going to have to answer for. It usually only takes a few minutes. Most guys have other areas, but really, they’re all thinking about the area of purity. If they “messed up” during the previous week, they’re probably writhing in their seat trying to figure out how to say it as quickly and neatly as possible. Maybe you didn’t mess up and when the other guy says he did, it makes you feel just a little bit better about yourself. Then, you might even discuss why it happened or how to improve and before you know it, you’re talking about the next movie you want to see. Then, the next week you’re faced with the same temptation and the “act of accountability” feels a long way off.
I’ll be honest. That’s pretty much where I’ve been with accountability. I think that I’ve failed myself and others by just staying there for so long. But this isn’t about guilt. As our group was reminded last night from a Psalm of David, the Lord forgives even “the guilt of my sin”. So, what if accountability was more than an act? What if it were an ongoing, active communication? Maybe it would look like this:
Let’s start at the “meeting”…
A few dudes meet up for their regular meeting. They discuss life and what they’re learning from the Lord. They spend time laughing and challenging each other. Maybe at times, they confront each other with tough questions. One thing’s for sure, they’re honest. They’ve probably discussed their struggles whether it be with purity or something else. They’ve helped each other come up with boundaries and parameters to be victorious in those areas. They usually spend some focused time praying with and for each other (life, temptation, family, leading, etc.) Then, they leave. But it doesn’t end there…
A day or 2 later, they’re still thinking about each other and praying for each other. One dude thinks about his buddy, prays for him, and then sends him a text to let him know. That guy gets the text and prays for the other guys too and lets them know. A few more days go by. One dude is out of town for the weekend and the other guys know about it. They call him and pray for him. They’ll text him biblical reminders to stay strong throughout the weekend. Another guy is home alone for a few hours. He’s had a few stressful days at work and he’s feeling extremely tempted. He thinks about the other guys and texts them so they’ll pray for him. One of the other guys takes it a step further and calls the dude up and asks him some tough questions, he even offers some suggestions that get the tempted guy out of the situation all together. They’re always reminding each other of what’s most important in their lives…. their pursuit of Christ.
And the active, ongoing communicative accountability just keeps working… it becomes habitual and ingrained in their thinking. They’re iron sharpening each other every day. They’re all becoming more like Christ together.
“ As iron sharpens iron, so a friend sharpens a friend.” Proverbs 27:17 (NLT)
Why wait till a knife gets dull to sharpen it? Why not keep it sharp and ready all the time? Let’s try this together!
The Bible, Life, Discipline, and Patience
Yeah… it’s been a while… again. You know the drill, Christmas craziness, travelling, and just plain forgetting about the blog (which should be ok). However, I’m amazed that there were actually people looking at this blog even when I wasn’t posting a lick. So… thanks I guess and I hope it’s been beneficial or at least lifted your spirits or something. Anywho…
So, I’ve been reading through the Bible. Big deal right? That’s what Christians are supposed to do! Well… this is kind of a big deal to me because I’m reading straight through the whole thing. Now, don’t take that as a boastful statement. If anything, it comes with a certain level of timidity, insecurity, and embarrassment. You see, the truth is that I have never actually read all the way through the Bible without stopping. I’ve started a hundred times, but usually fell off the wagon somewhere in Chronicles and just skipped back over to the New Testament. I mean sure, I’ve read a lot of the Bible in various studies, but I’m sure I’ve missed some here and there. So… as a guy who’s 28 and in full time ministry, it’s kind of embarrassing that I’m just now persevering through the Book… and let me tell you, it has been slow. To be honest, I don’t remember when I started. I decided not to rush it or give myself a lot of deadlines. However, once I got over the Chronicles hurdle and eventually found myself looking at the Prophets, I did try really hard to get to the NT before Christmas.
It’s been a tough road. I’ve missed days here and there, but fortunately, I kept going. The Prophets were particularly tough… especially for a guy that missed out on prophecy class and didn’t go to seminary! How many times can God tell these folks to get their act together or else?! But alas, I’m in Matthew and it’s like I’m reading it for the first time! The DISCIPLINE of reading through the Old Testament in it’s entirety is paying off! I mean, I knew that Jesus quoted a ton from the OT, but pretty much just grazed over it, not really knowing what it meant or where it was from. But now… wow! I’m like “I’ve seen that before!” It’s amazing how many prophecies were fulfilled when Jesus walked this earth! Even the fact that he would ride into Jerusalem on a donkey was prophesied in Zechariah! That is pretty stinking cool! Over 400 years of silence from the Lord between the Old Testament and the arrival of Jesus and these prophecies nailed it all!
Then, you’ve got these pharisees, these “teachers” of the law who know these scriptures in and out and they’re missing it all! Instead, they stand and pass judgment on those seeking Jesus and try to get in his way! Unbelievable! But then again… how often do I do the same thing?
In closing, I’d like to share an example of how this idea of scripture finally coming to life showed up in my life recently. So, I have a good friend and mentor who had fallen into a sinful situation and lost his position and income because of it. I’ve seen this kind of thing happen before. I mean, you hear about stuff on the news and it’s so easy to say horrible, judgmental things about Christian leaders who make mistakes. It’s like we just want to throw them to the dogs and write them off… but of course, we don’t know them… we just judge from afar. Well… this guy in particular means a lot to me, so I got together with him when I was home for Christmas. Let me tell you something… when you care about someone who has made a mistake and you sit down and look into their eyes and see brokenness, humility, and repentance, the whole game changes. I hurt for him. I wanted to help him… to forgive him… to pray for him and see him restored in some way. It absolutely kills me to hear about other reactions to this guy and others like him… mean, hateful, unloving, unforgiving reactions. But, we’ve all responded that way at some point, haven’t we?
Ok… so back to the scripture. I’m in Matthew now and came across a passage I’ve seen a hundred times in Matthew 7:1-5
“Do no judge or you too will be judged. For in the same way you judge others, you will be judged, and with the measure you use, it will be measured to you. Why do you look at the speck of sawdust in your brother’s eye and pay no attention to the plank in your own eye? How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ when all the time there is a plank in your own eye? You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.”
This dude is my brother and I have so many planks in my eyes… I can’t judge with anger or hate. I want to judge and respond in love… that’s what I’d want from others if the tables were turned. And you know what… his plank has already been removed! He’s confessed, repented, been broken… the whole nine yards. This process of judging is not necessary… only LOVE and prayer.
Praise the Lord for Scripture that comes alive when we read it and live it! Be patient with His Word! Keep at it… embrace the discipline and watch it come to life before your eyes!
Top 5 bands you’d love to be onstage with.
Ok… I’ve been away from this blog for so long… shows, church planning stuff, baby showers, weddings, etc. It’s been busy. But this morning, I thought I’d post something just for the sheer fun of it.
I just borrowed Mutemath’s “Armistice: Live” dvd and it was sweet. Nothing like seeing them live in person, but still great. I got to thinking, man it would be fun to play onstage with those dudes. So I thought why not make a list of 5 bands you’d love to play with onstage. Here are mine:
5. Sigur Ros – these Icelandic guys create epic soundscapes that can take you all over the world. I’d love to be in on that for a bit. Plus, Jonsi plays guitar with a bow!
4. John Mark McMillan – this guy’s songs just move me in a way that few others can. It’s real, it’s not polished, and it’s amazing worship.
3. Mutemath – one of the best live shows I’ve ever seen and there’s always something crazy going on with an instrument or piece of electronics
2. Radiohead – almost favorite band. I’d want to be onstage and see if I could even figure out what Ed and Jonny are doing with their gear.
1. U2 – my favorite band of all time. I want to pick up Edge’s guitar and have Dallas (guitar tech) dial me in some of his epic sounds on the big stage.
So there’s mine… what’s yours?
Getting with the “times”
So… I have found that my method of CD sales is pretty antiquated. So, I am getting with the times (to a certain extent). I have signed up for a CD Baby account with my album, The Wooden Radio. What does this mean?
1. I will be accepting major credit cards at my shows.
2. As soon as they receive my cds in the mail, you will be able to order a physical copy of the album through CD baby using a credit card. (no sending me money and waiting).
3. In December, if you still don’t have the album and don’t want a physical cd, it will be available for digital download on CD baby and eventually, iTunes and Amazon.
4. I will still be taking cash/check in person or at shows.
Stay tuned for more details!
How to get a copy of my CD
My new album, The Wooden Radio is now available on CD for $10.00 (cash or check made out to Matt Carter). Being that I’m not playing shows every night, I have to get a little creative on ways to sell these CD’s. Here is how you can get one:
In Person:
1. If you’re in the Wooster area, just email me at mathdcarter@gmail.com and let me know. We’ll set up a way to make the exchange.
2. Come to four14 on a Thursday night and purchase one from the welcome center. We’ll have them available for the next several weeks.
3. If you’re in the Warsaw/Winona Lake area, email my mom at tlcarter1157@gmail.com and she’ll hook you up.
By Mail:
Just send $12.00 (10 for Cd and 2 for shipping) and a little note to me at this address:
Attn: Matt Carter
Wooster Grace Brethren Church
4599A Burbank Rd.
Wooster, OH 44691
As soon as I get the money in the mail, I’ll mail you out however many copies you ordered.
When my CD stock begins to decrease more dramatically, I will get the album up on the internet for digital download. If for some crazy reason you send me money and I’m out of CD’s (highly unlikely), I will send your money back and direct you to the digital download when it’s available.
Thanks for supporting me and my music!
-Matt
Tomorrow Night!
My very first (personal) CD release concert is tomorrow night here at Wooster Grace in the Student Center. I have no idea what to expect in terms of turnout… facebook says I have 55, but then again, many people ignore event invitations all together. Regardless, I’m excited to play my music with some good friends and share my heart through these songs. I’m excited to get my music into people’s hands.
I am very blessed to even have the opportunity to do this! I am blessed that I have a position that allows me this freedom and people who care about my music. I am pleased with the album and I hope everyone who buys it will be pleased as well.
You can still listen to 8 whole tracks from the album at www.myspace.com/matthewcartermusic
You can find the event page here: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/event.php?eid=112373858814993
I hope to see many of you there tomorrow night and who knows, maybe you’ll even be singing along on a few songs!
The Wooden Radio is in the oven!
Production on my new album began today over at discmakers! I’m excited to just have these in hand! Now, it’s time to gear up for the cd release show. I have some practicing to do! I really hope you can make it out and pick up a cd for 10 bucks! For a little while, that will be the only way to get one (see me in person or come to a show). I will work on getting another way to get them out soon after the release. But, if you can make it, please come and join us! It’s free… so you can have money to get a cd! Come to the show
You can still check out several tracks from the cd at myspace! I hope you’ll be able to sing a long with me on a few songs that night!
Finally, I thought I’d show you a little of the design work for the cd. It’s simple, but the great pictures by the Gypsons and Jillian Moomaw made all the difference!
New Album is almost here… new songs!
So… it’s been one crazy summer! Between a Night of Worship and going to SE Asia, I haven’t had much time to focus on this album release… but it’s crunch time now! Luckily, the recording and most of the design work was done well ahead of time. I’m shipping my music and design files off to discmakers this week and the process of “pressing” will begin. Really, it’s duplication, not pressing because records are pressed unlike CDs. But I like to say “pressing” because it sounds a little more authentic… even though it’s not at all for this.
Anyways, I thought I’d release a few more songs today from the album. You can check them out at myspace.
The CD release concert is still set for Friday, August 20. It will be in the SMC here at Wooster Grace church. I’m getting excited about playing these songs live! I’ll be joined by Andrew Simms on percussion and Steven Starkey on guitars. Hopefully you’ll be excited to hear these songs and maybe even sing along! So, you can start listening to a few songs and learning the melodies now! Then you can come out and have a great time with us, then top it off by purchasing your own copy of “The Wooden Radio”!
More updates to come…
