the arts at meck

Set List for 3/4

2012-03-04T23:21:00.002-05:00

Week 4 of the Significant Other series

Your Name High - Hillsong

O Praise Him - David Crowder Band

Forever Reign - Hillsong Live

Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture

Set List for 2/26

2012-02-27T15:15:00.001-05:00

Week 3 of the Significant Other series

Freedom Is Here - Hillsong

Yours Forever - Hillsong

Always - Passion

You'll Come - Brooke Fraser

Set List for 2/19

2012-02-19T22:42:00.003-05:00

Week 2 of the Significant Other series

Our God Is Love - Hillsong

My Glorious - Meck Arrangement

Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill

All My Fountains - Chris Tomlin

Set List for 2/12

2012-02-14T13:32:00.003-05:00

Week 1 of the Significant Other series

Freedom Is Here - Hillsong

The Time Has Come - Hillsong

Forever Reign - Hillsong Live

Yours Is the Victory - Newspring

Set List for 2/5

2012-02-09T08:50:00.001-05:00

Last Week of the Great by Choice Series

Go - Hillsong United

Rise and Sing - Steve Fee

Grace - Steven Gompers

You Won't Relent - Misty Edwards

Set list for 1/29

2012-02-04T09:47:00.001-05:00

Week 4 of the Great By Choice Series

Run - Hillsong Live

Yours Forever - Hillsong

Yours Is the Victory - Newspring

Jesus Paid it All - Kristian Stanfill

Set List for 1/22

2012-01-23T12:07:00.002-05:00

Week 3 of the Great By Choice Series

God Is Alive - Steve Fee

The Time Has Come - Hillsong

Hosanna - Brooke Fraser

No One Higher/The Stand - Meck Arrangement

Set List for 1/15

2012-01-15T16:34:00.002-05:00

Week 2 of the Great By Choice Series

Go - Hillsong United

Sing Sing Sing - Passion (live)

In Your City - Phil Wickham

How He Loves - Kim Walker (Live Version)

Christmas Eve, Backstage Part 1

2012-01-09T10:49:00.001-05:00

Set List for 1/8

2012-01-08T11:14:00.002-05:00

Week 1 of the Great By Choice series

Rise and Sing - Steve Fee

Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture

Stronger - Hillsong

Our God - Chris Tomlin

Set List for 1/1

2012-01-04T20:28:00.002-05:00

New Years Service

Our God Is Love - Hillsong

O Praise Him - David Crowder

Forever Reign - Hillsong

Lead Me To The Cross - Meck Arrangement

Always - Passion

Set List for Christmas Eve

2011-12-29T23:54:00.002-05:00

Christmas Eve Services

O Holy Night - Barlow Girls

Gloria - Mercy Me

All Creation Sing (Joy to the World) - Steve Fee

Silent Night - Meck Arrangement

O Come All Ye Faithful - Third Day

Set List for 12/18

2011-12-20T10:40:00.002-05:00

Week 3 of the Mother of God Series

Rise and Sing - Steve Fee

Grace - Steven Gompers

From the Inside Out - Kristian Stanfill

In Your City - Phil Wickham

First Noel - Phil Wickham

Set List for 12/11

2011-12-17T18:37:00.002-05:00

Week 2 of the Mother of God Series

God Is Alive - Steve Fee Live

The Time Has Come - Hillsong

O Come Let Us Adore Him - Meck Arrangement

Forever Reign - Hillsong Live

Breath of Heaven - Amy Grant

Set List for 12/4

2011-12-06T14:17:00.002-05:00

Week 1 of the Mother of God Series

Freedom is Here - Hillsong

Run - Hillsong Live

You'll Come - Brooke Fraser

Cannons - Phil Wickham

Set List For 11/27

2011-11-28T13:43:00.002-05:00

Thanksgiving

You Deserve - Hillsong

My Glorious - Delirious?

Mighty to Save - Hillsong

Run - Hillsong

Always - Passion

No One Higher/The Stand - Steve Fee

Set List For 11/20

2011-11-20T18:48:00.001-05:00

Week 6 of Mythbusting Series

The Time Has Come - Hillsong

Your Name High - Hillsong

From the Inside Out - Kristian Stanfill

Revelation Song - Kim Walker

Set Lists For 11/13

2011-11-14T16:12:00.002-05:00

11/13: Week 5 of Mythbusting Series

All Because of Jesus - Steve Fee

Our God is Love - Hillsong

Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture (ONLY at NC & MIL)

With Everything - Hillsong (ONLY at LKN)

Set Lists For 11/6

2011-11-09T09:16:00.002-05:00

11/6: Week 4 of Mythbusting Series

You Deserve - Hillsong

Grace - Steven Gompers

Our God - Chris Tomlin

God is Alive - Steve Fee

Offering Song (Only at NC campus): Cannons - Phil Wickham

Set Lists For 10/30

2011-10-31T01:13:00.002-04:00

10/30: Week Three of Mythbusting Series

God is Alive - Steve Fee

Rise and Sing - Steve Fee

Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin

Jesus Paid it All - Kristian Stanfill

Set Lists for 10/15 and 10/22

2011-10-25T09:59:00.003-04:00

10/15: Week One of Mythbusting Series
Run - Hillsong
Here is Our King - DCB
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
All My Fountains - Chris Tomlin

10/22: Week Two of Mythbusting Series
The Time Has Come - HIllsong
*Lead Me To The Cross - Hillsong (*Chorus at end by Steven Gompers)
Our God is Love - HIllsong
Yours Forever - HIllsong

Set List for final week of Under Protective Parent, 10/8&9

2011-10-14T08:58:00.003-04:00

All three Meck sites went acoustic this weekend with the following set:

Our God is Love - Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture
You Hold me Now - Hillsong
Sing, Sing, Sing (Passion)

Offering:
At Your Name - Phil Wickham

10/1&2 Set List for Week Three of Under Protective Parent

2011-10-04T10:24:00.002-04:00

Here is Our King - DCB
My Glorious - Tomlin
You Won't Relent - Jesus Culture
Forever Reign - Hillsong

Offering:
Like an Avalanche - Hillsong

Set Lists for first two weeks of Under Protective Parent

2011-09-26T10:33:00.003-04:00

9/17 & 18:
You Deserve - Hillsong
Your Name High - Hillsong
In Your City - Phil Wickham
You'll Come - Hillsong
Our God - Tomlin

Offering:
All to You - Lincoln Brewster

9/24 & 25:
Run - Hillsong
The Time has Come - Hillsong
Cannons - Phil Wickham
Grace - Steven Gompers
God is Alive - Fee

Offering/Media piece:
Our God is Love - Lee McDermett

Set List for 9/10&11

2011-09-19T10:28:00.003-04:00

9/11: Ten Years Later

Our God is Love - Hillsong
How Great is Our God - Chris Tomlin
You Never Let Go - Matt Redman
No One Higher/Stand - Fee

Closing: Wonderful Cross - Chris Tomlin

Communion Set List

2011-09-08T10:51:00.004-04:00

This weekend marked a 'first' for our church - we celebrated Communion at all of our weekend experiences and at all three Charlotte area sites. If you missed the teaching, be sure to go listen to the mp3 that outlines why this is such an important event in the life of every Christ follower and why we celebrate it as we do at Meck.

Yours Forever - Hillsong United
The Time Has Come - Hillsong United
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
Grace - Steven Gompers
Hold On - Phil Wickham
Your Name High - Hillsong United

LifeForce Set Lists

2011-09-08T10:43:00.004-04:00

8/13&14:
Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin
You Deserve - Hillsong
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
Always - Kristian Stanfill
The Time Has Come - Hillsong United
Because of Your Love - Catalyst Project

8/20&21:
God is Alive - Fee
Run - Hillsong
Forever Reign - Hillsong
With Everything - Hillsong
Stronger - Hillsong

8/27&28:
Rise and Sing - Fee
Our God is Love - Hillsong
Always - Kristian Stanfill
(Freedom Video)
Freedom is Here - Hillsong
Go - Hillsong

Romans 1:1 final installment

2011-08-22T13:26:00.002-04:00

I've been sitting on this blog post for a few weeks now, but it's way past time to post it. So here goes.

We've been looking at the way the apostle Paul chose to identify

himself to his readers as he begins this epic letter to the church in

Rome. So far we've observed that Paul would encapsulate his identity

three ways; first as a slave by choice to Jesus Christ. Second, as a

man called to be an apostle, and finally, "separated unto the gospel

of God."

The word separated here is pretty strong, it means to set off by

boundary, or to sever. Those are pretty stout mental images there. The

idea of marking off something by creating a boundary, like a block

wall or a tall fence is pretty strong. Or to sever, like...well that

word speaks medically to itself. Yikes!

Today I'd like us to consider not what we are instructed to be

separated from by Paul's example here, but what we are to be separated

TOO. To focus on being separated from something here, like being

separated from "the world" might get us into some dangerous territory

as we are also instructed to be "in the world, but not of the world."

We must interact with those far from Christ if we have any hope of

sharing the love of Christ with them.

Now, I'm not saying we are not called to be separated from something.

Our lives as Christ followers ought to be different. Our speech,

lifestyles, integrity, work ethic and so on should look very different

than that of those without saving knowledge of Jesus Christ. If we are

to pattern our lives after the life of Jesus we certainly ought not blend in.

Jesus did a lot more offending than he did blending.

And in that way, we certainly need to be separated from the world.

But for right now, I'd just like to focus the other half of the

equation, and that is to whom we are to be separated. And to

illustrate my point I'd like to tell you a story about when this light

bulb came on for me.

One day as I left the grocery store with my daughter Ava in tow, I had

both hands full of bags and soda. Like most parents, we require our

children to hold our hands as we cross a street or parking lot. But on

this day, both hands were full and I hadn't thought the whole walking

to the car business through. So this was the ensuing convsation-

Me: Ava, you need to hold onto the diet coke bottle here in my hand

and don't let go.

Ava: Why do I have to hold the diet coke?

Me: Because you need to... stay connected to me...somehow.

"light bulb"

You see, as long as she was holding the diet coke bottle, she was

connected to me. I knew where she was and she knew where I was. If I

stopped she would have no choice but to stop as well, as long as she's

connected to me. And this was for many reasons, but primarily for her own safety. I can see what she can't see because I'm taller, older, wiser and more

experienced at navigating the dangerous crosswalks with speedy cars

and unpredictable dangers.

I think the parallel is pretty obvious at this point. We need to stay

closely connected to our heavenly Father. He is the well spring of

life, the light to our path, the lamp for our feet. And its for our

best interest! It reminds me of one of my favorite passages of the

Bible, John ch. 15. "Abiding in the vine." Keeping a close union with

our Savior is vital. But let's go the last five percent, as Jim likes to say.

How does this apply to Paul's description of himself, and the passage we're studying?

Our close union with Christ needs to define us.

In the same way that our calling and choice to serve God defines us, we ought

to be able to define ourselves in these three ways, based on Romans 1:1 -

1. I choose to serve Jesus and His plans are more important than mine.

2. I am certain of God's calling on my life, and that dictates my decisions.

3. I keep intimate communion with God atop my to-do list at all times.

If we can't honestly describe ourselves this way, let's make it so. And let's set our focus on staying closely connected, and separated to God our Father.

Thanks for continuing this journey through Romans with me. Next time

we'll move on from verse one...

much love, -g

Set List for 7/9&10

2011-07-12T11:02:00.004-04:00

Here is Our King - DCB
God is Alive - Fee
Cannons - Phil Wickham
All my Fountains - Chris Tomlin
You Never Let Go - Matt Redman
Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin

Set List for 7/2&3

2011-07-05T09:57:00.004-04:00

The Time Has Come - Hillsong
You Deserve - Hillsong
Enough - Tomlin
Our God - Tomlin
Run - Hillsong
Heaven and Earth - Phil Wickham

Set List for 6/25&26

2011-06-30T10:06:00.003-04:00

Rise and Sing - Fee
Living for You - Gateway Church
You'll Come - Brooke Fraser
Forever Reign - Jason Ingram & Reuben Morgan
From the Inside Out - Joel Houston

Crazy Love - Hawk Nelson

Our Calling and Identity in Christ

2011-06-29T16:10:00.002-04:00

Romans 1:1 "Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God..."

This week we’re going to take a look at the second of three phrases Paul used to identify himself as he opened his letter to the church in Rome. As I stated last time, the significance of Paul’s opening words are that he is identifying himself to the readers, and by doing so in this fashion, he sums up 'who he is' by these phrases.

After referring to himself as a bondservant of Jesus Christ, Paul says he is “called to be an apostle...”

We are not all called to do the same thing, and there is no more or less important calling in The Church, or the "body" of Christ. However, we are all instructed to be certain of OUR CALLING, or as The Message Translation puts it, “God’s invitation to you, His choice of you.” (2 Peter 1:10) But let’s not get our ambitions or desires mixed up with God’s calling. Sometimes we WANT to be or do something that God has not called us to be. And, as Pastor Chuck Smith of Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa plainly puts it, “You can’t be any more than God has called you to be. And we often times get into trouble trying to do more than God has called us to do.” We are not responsible to God for any more or any less than what He has called us to.

But why is it so important that you and I be certain of God’s calling? Why shouldn’t we just attend church, give faithfully, and serve where there’s a need? The way I'm challenged by this question is an important element behind Paul’s description of himself. Not his apostleship, but in his identity being firmly rooted in his calling.

The instruction found earlier in the first chapter of 2 Peter really give us insight to this:

“...Everything that goes into a life of pleasing God has been miraculously given to us by getting to know, personally and intimately, the One[Jesus] who invited us to God...don't lose a minute in building on what you've been given, complementing your basic faith with good character, spiritual understanding, alert discipline, passionate patience, reverent wonder, warm friendliness, and generous love, each dimension fitting into and developing the others...But if anyone does not have [these qualities], he is nearsighted and blind, and has forgotten that he has been cleansed from his past sins.” (from verses 3-8)

Peter goes on to explain to us that for this reason, be certain of God's intent for you and you will be firmly rooted, you will not fail. (v.10) Essentially it's a stair step process with a successful life of following Christ being the top step. Each subsequent step is outlined as character, discipline, patience, love, etc. As we are shaped by these traits we can become certain of our calling. If we neglect the pursuit of these traits, it will be as if we've forgotten that the perfect blood of Jesus acts as perfect atonement for our sins.

Knowing our individual calling is a key to our personal spiritual development. And our resolve to become more like Christ is pivotal in reaching the world Jesus died for. Because when we build character, patience and love on top of basic faith in Jesus, we can be certain of God’s calling and firmly rooted in Christ. Only then can we exercise God’s calling, be used to reach the world, and really discover who we are in Christ.

So where are we on this proverbial stair step process? Are our lives marked by these characteristics? Are we on a steady path of building patience and character towards exercising God's best intention for us? Subsequently, do the people in our lives know that WE KNOW that we are forgiven and free from the snare of sin?

One of the most important lessons I learned in Bible College was to confront the truth in the Bible honestly. So when I'm directly challenged by the Bible's instruction I must honestly compare that to my life, and make no excuses.

That is, if I really believe Jesus gave up his life so I could live.

-g

Are you a bondservant of Jesus?

2011-06-22T15:28:00.000-04:00

I'm writing this blog to convey Biblical truth that will challenge my team of worship leaders, interns, musicians and sound techs as I am challenged by God's Word. If you don't fall into this category of people, but are encouraged by the blog, then great! Thanks for taking this journey with me. For this season I will blog my way through the book of Romans. May God lead my eyes to fall and settle on the words and concepts that will most appropriately lead and challenge my team for this season of life, in Jesus' name, Amen. Here we go-

Paul is writing this letter to the church in Rome, from the city of Corinth about 25 years after he saw Jesus on the road to Damascus. He was on his way to Jerusalem, with the intent to eventually go to Rome, which ultimately he did. The "in your face" biblical challenge starts out in verse one, chapter one. "Paul, a bondservant of Jesus Christ, called to be an apostle, separated to the gospel of God..." I'm stunned by this self description and I think it's worth considering. So let's do this in 3 parts, the first being the term, bondservant.

The best and most concise definition I can find for the word bondservant is this: devoted to another to the disregard of one’s own interests. The origin of the word comes from early accounts in the Bible in both Genesis and Leviticus. (Genesis ch. 9 and 29. Leviticus ch. 25) On some accounts the term is used to describe a person who owes a debt they can not repay. In another account, the bondservant is free, yet freely chooses to serve his master. He forfeits his rights as a free man and submits to his master's authority. In either case it's an interesting way for the apostle Paul to describe himself in this the first sentence of his letter.

Unlike letters we write today, authors would begin by identifying themselves. Interestingly Paul opts to focus on his calling, apostleship and servanthood to Jesus to describe the very depth and essence of who he is. He did not say Paul, formerly Saul of Tarsus, a Pharisee, the son of a Pharisee, a descendant of the tribe of Benjamin, a citizen of Rome, raised in Jerusalem "at the feet of Gamaliel" - all of which titles would be accurate, impressive and would carry much weight in the eyes of his readers. But he first called himself a bondservant of Jesus Christ: as if to say, "ABOVE ALL ELSE, greater than any other credentials or identifications, I am a chosen slave to the will of my master, Jesus Christ to whom I am in debt that I can not repay."

So what about you and me? In writing a letter would we ultimately describe ourselves in such a way? Is the fundamental basis of our identity encompassed as a bondservant of Jesus Christ? Or better yet, are we even challenged that it ought to be?

In 1 Corinthians 11:1(NLT) Paul writes, "And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ." If we are to take the Bible's instructions as the absolute Word of God; the inspired instructions that are without flaw- see 2 Timothy 3:16-17,2 Peter 1:20-21, 1 Corinthians 2:13 - then let's conclude this thought by following the chain of logic:

1. The Bible is true, and It's instruction to us is perfect, and applicable.

2. Paul, under the inspiration of God, tells us to imitate him as he imitates Christ.

3. Paul considers his identity to be found in his relentless commitment to the will of God.

4. We too ought to consider ourselves as bondservants, in debt to a loving master, subject to His will. And this ought to identify us as deeply as our name, our fingerprints or our DNA. If it does not, then let's make it so.

A simple prayer to kickstart this mindset:
Father, may my identity be found in You. Help me to relinquish my will to yours. I choose today to be a bondservant to Your will. May this fact dictate me decisions and demeanor today. Amen.

Next time we'll delve into the second of three descriptions Paul uses for himself, "called to be an apostle..."

much love -g

Just Do It Series Set Lists

2011-06-22T09:11:00.005-04:00

June 4/5
You Deserve - Hillsong
Let God Arise - Tomlin
God Is Alive - Fee
Blessed Be Your Name - Matt Redman/Meck
Our God - Tomlin
Love is Here - Tenth Avenue North

June 11/12
Our God Is Love - Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture
Mighty to Save - Laura Story/HIllsong
Kingdom - Kristian Stanfill
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
Wondrous Cross- Redman/Tomlin
Amazing Grace - traditional
No One Higher/Stand - Fee

June 18/19
All to You - Lincoln Brewster
You Deserve - Hillsong
Grace - Steve Gompers
Freedom is Here - Hillsong
Beautiful Day - U2

Momentum Series Set Lists

2011-06-01T12:41:00.003-04:00

Momentum Week 1:
Our God is Love
Your Name High
Jesus Paid is All
Salvation is Here
Freedom is Here
Offering: Awakening-Switchfoot

Momentum Week 2:
Run
God is Alive
Your Love Never Fails
All Because of Jesus
Yours Forever
Offering: Right now-Van Halen

Momentum Week 3:
The Time Has Come
Rise and Sing
Your Name High
Offering: Captivate Us-Watermark
Your Hold me Now
Revelation Song

Momentum Week 4:
Yours Forever
Salvation is Here
From the Inside Out
In Your City
Living for You
Offering: We Are One-Switchfoot

Momentum Week 5:
God is Alive
My Glorious
Lead me to the Cross
With Everything
Run
Offering: You Deserve - Hillsong

EASTER AT VERIZON!

2011-04-25T15:05:00.005-04:00

What can I say to capture what went down at Verizon yesterday? Not sure there are words that can sum it up other than to say we have been praying like mad for God to be all over the planning, the weather, the invitations, the technology, the message, our children's programming, NeedToBreathe, the whole day...and the Holy Spirit moved in big ways. What an honor it was to be a part of a day filled with real life change for thousands and thousands of people. Humbled and Grateful to be a part of a church that doesn't do what's easiest, but is always looking for what's best and most strategic for reaching our friends and family with the gospel.

Opener:
Let Your Glory Shine - Lincoln Brewster

Rise and Sing - Fee
God is Alive - Fee
Yours Forever - Hillsong

Offering:
Manifesto - The City Harmonic

During Baptisms:
In Your City - Phil Wickham
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
True Love - Phil Wickham
Wonderous Cross - Redman/Tomlin

Closing Music by NeedToBreathe! (Just an fyi: These guys could not have been nicer or more excited about partnering with us for Easter at Verizon 2011. While I was all ready a fan of their music, I'm now a fan of them as people. They are real deal. Now go support them and buy their music!)

Set List for 4/9&10

2011-04-12T18:03:00.003-04:00

The Time Has Come - Hillsong
Wondrous Cross - Chris Tomlin
Grace - Steve Gompers/Nichole Broome

Offering:
Speaking Louder Than Before - Jeremy Camp

Closing:
Spirit of the Living God-Traditional Hymn
Freedom is Here - Hillsong

Set List Update

2011-04-04T10:21:00.003-04:00

Sorry, haven't updated set lists in a few weeks! This will get you up to speed:

3/19:
All Because of Jesus-Fee
Forever Reign - Hillsong
From the Inside Out - Hillsong
Our God is Love - Hillsong

Offering: LIght Up the Sky - The Afters

3/26:
God is Alive - Fee
Your Name High - Hillsong
The Glory of It All - DCB
With Everything - Hillsong
Tag You Never Let Go - Matt Redman

Offering: By your side - Tenth Avenue North

4/2:
Our God - Chris Tomlin
Yours Forever - Hillsong
No One Higher/Stand - Fee
O Praise Him - DCB
Here is Our King - DCB

Offering: What if - Nichole Nordeman

March 12/13 Set List

2011-03-17T12:26:00.003-04:00

Salvation is here - Kristian Stanfill/Meck Version
Your Name High - Hillsong
Beautiful Jesus - Kristian Stanfill
In Your City - Phil Wickham
Run - Hillsong

Offering Song provided by MecKidz worship team (and they totally rocked it out at every campus!): "Jump"

March 5/6

2011-03-07T08:24:00.003-05:00

Our God is Love - Lee McDermott
Here is Our King - DCB
No One Higher - Fee
Rise and Sing - Fee

Offering:
Go - HIllsong

Set List for 2/26&27

2011-03-01T10:36:00.001-05:00

Yours Forever - Hillsong
Our God is Love - Hillsong
You Won't Relent - Jesus Culture

Offering Song/Mixed Media:
Give me Your Eyes - Brandon Heath

Musicians & Vocalists - come see us!

2011-02-22T08:12:00.002-05:00

Musicians and Vocalists: this is your time - your time to use your talents in a way that has outrageous impact, challenges you artistically, encourages your spiritual life, connects you to community and is just plain fun!

Who: Musicians and Vocalists interested in participating @ Meck
Date: Wednesday, 3/9
Time: Drop in any time between 5-8p (15-20 minutes per person)
What to bring: Your instrument (drums available on site) and come prepared to play/sing a song that represents your style
Where: North Charlotte Auditorium

More info?
Email Kgray@mecklenburg.org or leave a comment here!

2/19&20 set list

2011-02-22T08:09:00.002-05:00

Let God Arise- Chris Tomlin
God is Alive - Fee
Hosanna - Hillsong
My Glorious - Passion
tag of 'How great is our God' - traditional

Offering:
True Love - Phil Wickham

2/12&13 Set List

2011-02-14T18:51:00.001-05:00

All Because of Jesus - Fee
Here is Our King - DCB
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture/Chris Quilala
Freedom is Here - Hillsong

Offering:
Come to Save Us - Sons & Daughters

Do you know how much He loves you?

2011-02-08T15:53:00.004-05:00

A team member sent me a video link this week about worship and there was one part that really stood out and grabbed my attention. The video was an interview with Kim Walker-Smith and she said the following about worship:

"If you are not passionate about your relationship with Jesus, not passionate about worshipping, i really think it's because you don't know yet how much He loves you.

Because the word says we love Him because He first loved us. And what that means is that the moment we encounter His love, it ignites the flame of passion in our hearts. The way that we were created, in our DNA, in the very fiber of who we are, we were created to respond to His love, so when we have that encounter we can't help but respond back in love to Jesus. That's what makes the passion real, that's what makes the love real, it doesn't have to be something that's hyped up or worked up, because when you go into worship, it's just that love coming out because we are responding to His love."

A great thought for all of us - is our worship (personal and corporate) our response to His love and sacrifice? Do we get that? Do we really know how much God loves us? Do we really understand the depth of that LOVE?

"At the wonderful, tragic, mysterious tree
On that beautiful, scandalous night you and me
Were atoned by His blood and forever washed white
On that beautiful, scandalous night"

Do you know how much God loves you? Does your worship reflect that truth?

Set List for 2/5&6

2011-02-08T15:38:00.003-05:00

At all THREE sites - Praise God!

Living For You - Gateway Worship
Rise and Sing - Fee
The Time Has Come - Hillsong
He Loves Us - Kim Walker/Jesus Culture version

Offering Song:
Your Love - Chrystina Lloree Fincher

Set List for 1/29&30

2011-01-31T19:35:00.002-05:00

Run - Hillsong
With Everything - Hillsong
No One higher - Fee
tag of Jesus paid it all - Kristian Stanfill

Offering:
Psalm 62 - John Michael Talbot

1/22&23 Set List

2011-01-24T18:21:00.002-05:00

Here is Our King - DCB
O Praise Him - DCB
You Hold Me Now - Hillsong
God is Alive - Hillsong Live

Offering:
All I Want - Future of Forestry

BASS PLAYERS NEEDED!

2011-01-20T20:17:00.002-05:00

Do you play bass? or know someone who does? We are in REAL need of some bass players at Meck as we go to three campuses. Please email kristinagray@carolina.rr.com if you're interested or leave a comment right here on the blog.
Thanks!

THANKS!

2011-01-19T22:23:00.004-05:00

For everyone who came and everyone who prayed for the 'jam session' tonight, I want to say THANK YOU!

We met some AWESOME people and God was definitely in the house! Humbled yet again by the artists of Meck.

Did you miss out? Get in touch and let's chat about your role with the arts!

Jam Session for New/Interested Musicians & Vocalists!

2011-01-17T09:30:00.004-05:00

Musicians and Vocalists: this is your time - your time to use your talents in a way that has outrageous impact, challenges you artistically, encourages your spiritual life, connects you to community and is just plain fun!

Who: Musicians and Vocalists interested in participating @ Meck
Date: Wednesday, 1/19
Time: Drop in any time between 5-8p (15-20 minutes per person)
What to bring: Your instrument (drums available on site) and come prepared to play/sing a song that represents your style
Where: North Charlotte Auditorium

Set List for 1/15&16

2011-01-17T09:28:00.003-05:00

All of the songs in the set are by Hillsong:
Our God is Love
Your Name High
Stronger
Forever Reign

Offering:
Dare You To Move - Switchfoot

Set List for 1/8&9

2011-01-09T20:54:00.002-05:00

Wow - what a kickoff to the new series!

Freedom is Here - Hillsong
God is Alive - Fee
You'll Come - Hillsong
Yours forever - Hillsong

Offering:
Shine - Collective Soul

Set List for Jan 1/2

2011-01-04T20:53:00.003-05:00

Run-Hillsongs
Salvation is Here - Lincoln Brewster Version
Lead Me To The Cross - Hillsongs United
No One Higher - Fee
Rise and Sing - Fee

Oops...

2010-12-30T15:45:00.008-05:00

Well, I guess you could say it's been a bit crazy lately. It's December 30th and I think I'm finally starting to catch my breath after this very full month of December - whew!

Incase you missed it (which I hope you didn't!) Christmas Eve at Meck eclipsed every expectation, every prayer offered in a major way! From carolers outside, to hot chocolate, to candles, to a 'social network' media moment, to awesome lights (thanks Phil and Lane!), to a powerful word from our Senior Pastor, to incredible band and vocals, to master media work...well, you get the idea, it was sick.

And not only was it incredible to experience, it was life changing for so many in attendance. What more could you hope to be a part of?!

Here are the songs you heard:
Christmas Eve in Sarajevo - TSO
Gloria - MercyMe
All Creation Sing (Joy to the World) - Steve Fee
Silent Night -Traditional
O Come all ye Faithful - Traditional
O Come Let us Adore-Third Day
Tag of All Creation Sing

Jesus Painting

2010-12-15T13:32:00.005-05:00

If you were with us this past weekend, you experienced worship through a new medium - painting.
It was moving. It was awe-inspiring. It was filled with worship.

What's even better? The artist had never done anything like this before but her lone goal was to put her gift out there and trust God to do the rest. I'd say He answered her prayer.

But it wasn't just that she asked God to bless 'whatever'. This artist spent hours practicing, finding the right medium, praying over the story God would tell through these paintings, going over it with the weekend team, explaining her vision, adapting to requests/needs for the service, and so much more. It was the preparation of her craft and her spirit that led to one of the most moving moments I've experienced in recent memory.

I love the arts. What I love even more is an artist who recognizes where their gift came from and gives it back wholeheartedly for a purpose that is so much bigger than any art they could accomplish on their own.

12/11&12 Set List

2010-12-13T16:52:00.003-05:00

All to You - Lincoln Brewster
Living for You - Gateway Worship
Mighty to Save - Hillsong
Jesus Paid it All - Kristian Stanfill

Offering Song:
You Can Have Me-Sidewalk Prophets

12/4&5 Set List

2010-12-06T23:05:00.004-05:00

Kick off message for the series "Naked Love" was powerful (understatement of this blog!) I hope you'll join us this coming weekend for the next installment...I hear there are some pretty awesome things planned ;)

Here is Our King - David Crowder Band
Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture
Hallelujah Jesus - Evan Wickham
Our God is Love - Hillsong

Offering:
Hope to Carry On - Caedmon's Call Version

11/27&28 Set List

2010-12-03T07:49:00.004-05:00

I'm not sure what happened to the last two set lists but they didn't show up! Let's give it a go again....

11/27&28 was an incredible weekend as we closed out the "Street Smart" series with a really powerful word from the closing chapter of James and we added a cello, mandolin and accordion to our worship set (can you say 'sweet'!?)

Yours Forever - Hillsong (this version was officially my new favorite of this song!)
God is Alive - Fee
Stronger - Hillsong
Wondrous Cross - Tomlin

Offering:
Thankful - Caedmon's Call

Set List for Nov. 13/14

2010-11-14T10:04:00.003-05:00

Yours Forever-Hillsong
O Praise Him- David Crowder Band
Grace-Nichole Broome/Steven Gompers
He Loves Us-Kim Walker
*(is there a greater line than, "if grace were an ocean, we're all sinking". Love it, love the truth and power of those words)

offering song:
Deciphering Me-Brooke Fraser

Set List for Nov. 6/7

2010-11-08T11:17:00.002-05:00

Rise and Sing - Fee
Our God is Love - Hillsong
You Hold Me Now - Hillsong United
No One Higher - Fee

Offering;
Someday - Rob Thomas

Violin? Cello? Viola?

2010-11-03T11:59:00.002-04:00

Do you play violin? cello? viola?

WE NEED YOU for an upcoming service!

Please email kgray@mecklenburg.org to find out more

Set List for 10/30&31

2010-11-03T11:55:00.003-04:00

Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin
You Never Let Go - Matt Redman
From The Insider Out - Hillsong
All To You - Lincoln Brewster

Offering:
Satisfy Me - Decemberadio

Set List for 10/23&24

2010-10-24T20:36:00.003-04:00

Did anyone catch the awesome new music behind our 5 minute countdown? It was a Meck original compliments of the musical stylings of Ray, Andrew, Steven and Rick and master mixed by Rich Mason! Way to go guys!

All Because of Jesus - Fee
Salvation is Here - Lincoln Brewster Version
Hosanna - Brooke Fraser
Stronger - Hillsong

Offering:
Wake Up - Arcade Fire

Play Bass? Lead Electric? Keys/Snyth?

2010-10-19T18:20:00.006-04:00

So...do you? Do you play bass, lead electric or keys/synth?

Do you know anyone who does?

We need you!

As we expand and create teams for our various multi-sites, we have some very strategic needs in these 3 areas.

Email me at kgray@mecklenburg.org or leave a comment here.

This is an opportunity to not only meet some incredible people but to use your skills in a way that is way more awesome than any bar gig or wedding reception! :)

What are you waiting for?! Jump in and make a difference!

Set List for 10/16&17

2010-10-18T09:53:00.002-04:00

Wow, wow, wow.
What an incredible weekend! It seems like I'm saying that a lot these days, but God is doing some amazing things in our midst so I can't help it! So grateful.

We Shine - Fee
Here is Our King - DCB
Freedom is Here - Hillsong United

Offering:
Lead Me To The Cross - Brooke Fraser

Baptism songs:
Song to the King - Natalie Grant
Everlasting God - Chris Tomlin
Jesus Paid It All - Kristian Stanfill

Behold the Lamb of God Tickets Now Available!

2010-10-12T15:11:00.004-04:00

Get to Meck's website at mecklenburg.org to secure your tickets to the Behold The Lamb of God Concert!

Tickets SELL OUT every year so get yours fast. Once they are gone, they are gone no matter how much begging you do ;)

If you've never been - you don't want to miss this, trust me.

If you've been in years past - you didn't even finish reading this post because you are all ready ordering your tickets!

Can't wait to welcome back these amazing artists for what has become one of my all time favorite Christmas traditions!

Set List for 10/9&10

2010-10-10T11:02:00.003-04:00

Here is the set we did as we continued to have our butt kicked by the book of James ;)

Our God Is Love - Hillsong Live
God Is Alive - Fee
Yours Forever - Hillsong
My Glorious - Chris Tomlin

offering:
Won't Turn Back - needtobreathe

Set List for 10/2&3

2010-10-06T11:56:00.003-04:00

Run - Hillsong
Your Love Never Fails - Chris Quilala *Saturday night only
Revelation Song - Kari Jobe
You Hold Me Now - Hillsong United

Offering:
Shadowfeet - Brooke Fraser

Song during Cross Moment - Lord You Have My Heart

The Book of James + a Gifted Communicator + Little Crosses + Meck = Incredible Moment

Just amazing...and we get to do it all again this weekend!

A picture is worth a thousand words...

2010-09-28T14:08:00.004-04:00

I happen to walk backstage this weekend and when I did I saw this....

I must confess, the beauty of all those people with their arms wrapped around each other, so tight in this little circle, took my breath away. See, this isn't just a team of volunteers coming to serve. This is a family. They disagree. They pick on each other. They joke. They laugh. They cry. They pull each other up. They give a pat on the back. They support. They inspire. At the end of the day, they know someone has their back...they're in this together.

Their response? To pray.

And when they pray, they're not praying together because it's "part of serving" or the "right, churchy" thing to do when you're all gathered up together. This was no formal circle with strangers holding hands, reciting some inauthentic words that sounded good for the moment.

They are praying because it's part of their life, a part of their on-going relationship with Christ...they are praying and believing that God will provide more than they could ever ask or dream...trusting Him to do more than they are capable of...counting on Him to bind them together to reflect His love and grace to a lost and dying world...expecting to be a part of something amazing...grateful to be in it together...as a family.

Set List for 9/25&26

2010-09-27T08:00:00.002-04:00

Salvation is Here - Lincoln Brewster Version
Freedom is Here - Hillsong United
Mighty to Save - Hillsong
I am Free - Newsboys

Offering:
Let Your Glory Shine - Lincoln Brewster

Set list for September 18/19

2010-09-20T11:05:00.003-04:00

Rise and Sing - Fee
Everlasting God - Lincoln Brewster Version
Never Let Go - Matt Redman
Living for You - Gateway Worship

Life is a Highway - Rascal Flatts Version

Set List for September 11/12

2010-09-12T10:53:00.013-04:00

This weekend we had the fun of not only kicking off an awesome new series and a new set, but we also welcomed Psalm 100 from UNC Chapel Hill. If you missed it, check out one of the remaining inet campus services...I promise you'll be glad you did!

God Is Alive - Fee
Happy Day - Kim Walker Version
With Everything - Hillsong United

Psalm 100 performed the following songs:
By Your Side - Tenth Avenue North
Stand In The Rain - Superchick

and Yes, they have a cd. Their website is:
www.singpsalm.com

Set List for 9/4&5

2010-09-05T12:18:00.002-04:00

What a powerful weekend at Meck! I'll blog more about that later, but for now here's the set list:
Let God Arise - Chris Tomlin
Our God Is Love - Hillsong Live
From The Inside Out - Kristian Stanfill
Jesus Paid It All - Kristian Stanfill

offering:
A Mighty Fortress - Christy Nockels

Set List for 8/28&29

2010-08-29T10:59:00.002-04:00

If you weren't at Meck this weekend, you're in luck...because we have inet services you can attend. Check'em out because you don't want to miss this final installment of 2020 Vision!

O Praise Him - David Crowder Band
Here Is Our King - David Crowder Band
Drum breakdown - written and organized by our own Taylor C.!
Yours Forever - Hillsong United

offering: Never Going Back to OK- The Afters

closing: Hands - Jewel

Doesn't everyone appreciate a good cartoon?

2010-08-25T13:09:00.005-04:00

So things have been pretty serious on this blog lately...how about a good laugh, at a sound tech's expense!

Set List for August 21/22

2010-08-22T11:58:00.002-04:00

Faithful - Fee
Blessed be your name - Redman/Meck version
All because of Jesus - Fee

Our God is love - Hillsong Live

We're going green, er, blue!

2010-08-20T12:02:00.006-04:00

Okay, you're getting a double dose of blogging today!

This weekend the Meck Arts Team is going a little greener, well actually, we're going a little bluer!

This Saturday:
...I will say "adios!" to the trip to the store to pick up cases of water for the weekend
...I will say "good bye!" to collecting plastic water bottles out of the trash (YUCK!) for recycling because I can't stand to see all that plastic lying in the trash!

"Why?" you ask...
Because this weekend we will all say "HELLO!" to these:

Yep, as a member of the Meck Arts Team you'll be getting one of these super cool Meck water bottles! We'll not only help our environment and the budget, but we'll have another awesome way to get the Meck logo and website out there. And then what happens next? People see a logo, or a website, they might even ask about it...and you?
You have a chance to be light in the darkness yet again.

It's not just a water bottle folks, it's a tool - let's use it to spread the word!

Light in the Darkness

2010-08-20T09:52:00.006-04:00

Jesus says in John 8:12, "I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life."

There have been some pretty crazy thunderstorms here lately. On one occasion we lost our power. One moment we were playing in different areas of the house - two kids playing a game, another one reading a book, me folding laundry. A nice quiet moment. And then.. BANG!!! Lights were out and yelling was on!
"Where are you?!"
"I can't see you?!"
"Mommy come find me!"

And then it happened. After groping around, I finally found the flashlight and turned it on. All three kids made their way to the light...and felt safe and calm once again. It's pretty amazing how that one little flashlight seemed to light up every corner of the dark room. When you live with the lights on, it's easy to forget how scary the darkness can be.

Likewise, when you live everyday with the light of Christ in your life, it can be easy to forget how scary it feels to live in the darkness of a life without Christ. But as Christ followers, we're commissioned to remember the darkness and bring light to it.

In Matthew 5:14-16 it says, "You are the light of the world. A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

So, under a bucket or on a hill? Where will you put your light today?

"It is written..."

2010-08-18T14:10:00.011-04:00

Three little words found in Matthew 4 with huge impact and application for our life.

Most of us know the story - after Jesus is baptized, He is led to the desert where satan tests Him. Jesus responds to each temptation with, "it is written..." and follows with scripture.

Go back and read it again.

Do you notice how Jesus and the satan argue with Scripture, and both know it well? But the big difference is that satan quotes scripture out of context and 'values its wording over its meaning', as one commentary described it.
Jesus used Scripture to teach satan God's will; satan presents it merely as promises to be exploited for one's own purposes, a "how to get God to work for you" mentality (a perspective that still runs rampant today).

Scripture can be a great weapon...and like any weapon, it can do damage if mishandled.

Jesus knew scripture. He knew the power of it when rightly interpreted and applied.
And knowing meant obeying.

"It is written..."

Even Better Quotes...

2010-08-17T21:55:00.005-04:00

Well since we took up a week with quotes from other people, I thought we'd fill up this week with quotes from Jesus. Talk about having trouble narrowing down the field to a chosen few - whew!

I'd love to hear some of your favorite, most challenging or inspiring words from Jesus too. Here's one to get us started:

John 8:7-11:
"If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her." Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.

At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, "Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?"

"No one, sir," she said.
"Then neither do I condemn you," Jesus declared. "Go now and leave your life of sin."

Now that one is sure to mess you up in every way possible if you let it (that's one of the things scripture does best, right?). I mean seriously, how often have you been in 'the crowd' and said nothing? Been the Pharisee, all full of yourself, casting blame on someone else when it very easily could have, should have, been you? How often have you been the woman...desperate, humiliated, broken, alone? And then there's the turning point - the unbelievable moment when Jesus looks you - YOU - in the eye and says, "Then neither do I condemn you...now go and sin no more."

That's the moment when all is right with the world...it's a new beginning.

Set List for August 14/15

2010-08-15T12:25:00.002-04:00

The Time Has Come - Hillsong
No One Higher/Stand - Fee/Passion
The Glory Of It All - David Crowder Band
In Your City - Phil Wickham

Offering:
Something Beautiful - needtobreathe

Quotes to end your week...

2010-08-12T17:26:00.009-04:00

I had a tough time picking my favs for this final 'quote post', but here's my best shot at it...

Andy Stanley (Author and Senior Pastor, North Point Church):
"Every organization has problems that shouldn't be solved and tensions that shouldn't be resolved. Progress depends not on the resolution of those tensions but on the successful management of those tensions."

Jeff Manion (Author and Senior Pastor, Ada Bible Church):
"Invite TRUST into your house and keep complaint out. Trust EVICTS complaint - they are incompatible roommates."

"The 'desert' (referring to those 'desert times' in our lives) is intended for transformational growth - we learn to pray and depend in the desert...it's fertile soil."

Terri Kelly (President and CEO of W.L.Gore & Associates):
"Our success is collective but individual responsibility makes it so."

"How do we divide so we can multiply?"

Blake Mycoskie (Founder and "Chief Shoe Giver," TOMS Shoes, Inc.; could possibly be the coolest guy on the planet!):
"You can't be bashful if you want to make change."

Jack Welch (Former Chairman and CEO, General Electric, Best Selling Author):
"An acidic person is not the 'loud mouth disrupter'...it's the hallway whisperer who is deadly."

"Stop the meeting after the meeting."

T.D. Jakes (Chief Pastor, The Potter's House):
"We're not going out to get the victory, we have the victory; we're going out to SPREAD the victory!"

"No one wants a cheap copy of a master original."

"We don't just fight evil, we fight normalcy."

And then there were more...Quotes that is...

2010-08-11T15:05:00.005-04:00

Tony Dungy (Coach of the 2007 Super Bowl winning Colts, NBC Analyst):

"Stubbornness is a virtue...if you're right."

"Do not mistake hours for productivity."

"Why would you let anyone stop you from doing what you love?"

"I am a firm believer that the Lord sometimes has to short circuit even our best plans for our benefit."

Adam Hamilton (Founder and Senior Pastor, The United Methodist Church of the Resurrection):
***this was a very powerful, very honest message that hit you right between the eyes. There was no weaseling out of this one as if we had it all under control, Adam didn't leave room for that when he dealt head-on with the uncomfortable topic of sexual sin and why so many christians fall because of it. There was way too much depth here to cover in a few quotes, but here are Adam's 5 keys to resisting temptations. If we could burn these into our brain and have them as a safeguard, we'd be in a much better position for handling this sin when it rears its head...and it will. As Adam reminded us, "No one is immune to sexual sin...but none of us are beyond redemption..."
Resisting Temptation:
1. Remember who you are
2. Recognize the consequences of your actions
3. Rededicate yourself to Christ
4. Reveal struggle to a trusted friend
5. Remove yourself from the situation (no matter how hard and inconvenient it might seem)

Quotes, Day 2

2010-08-10T15:14:00.007-04:00

Continuing with yesterdays theme of Quotes from the 2010 Global Leadership Summit...

Jim Collins (Nationally Acclaimed Business Thinker, Best-selling Author):

“Greatness is a matter of conscious choice and discipline.”

"Count your blessings...in a spreadsheet. List all of the good things that have happened to you that you didn't cause"

"Invest more in being interested than in being interesting"

Christine Caine (Founder of the A21 Campaign, Director of Equip and Empower Ministries, Pastor & Teacher):

"Numbers are desensitizing. You must put a face and name to the number for it to mean something to you."

"We must determine to not bow down to the prevailing culture, but instead saturate a dark and hopeless world with the HOPE that can be found in Christ"

Zechariah 9:12, "return to the stronghold you prisoners of hope" (what awesome imagery - being a 'prisoner' of hope!)

Quotes, Quotes and more Quotes

2010-08-09T19:56:00.004-04:00

This past week we had the pleasure of hosting the Willow Creek Global Leadership Summit. It's an honor to be a host and the takeaway from an event like this lingers for a long time...if you let it.

Since my role with the Summit is very technical and focused, I don't catch the 'complete' message of any speaker. However, what I do find myself doing throughout each session is writing down quotes that grab my attention and cause me to be distracted from the 'job' I'm supposed to be doing for the Summit itself!

This years Summit featured one of the finest faculty line-ups ever. That being said, I have WAY too many quotes for one blog! So this week, each day will feature a few quotes that I hope cause you to be distracted in your daily routine too.

If you were at the Summit, I'd love to see you post some of your favorite quotes too!

Quotes for today come from Bill Hybels, Senior Pastor, Willow Creek Community Church:

"We can't stay here, we HAVE to go there. Staying 'here' breaks the heart of God."

"We are a fast paced, high challenge, results oriented, sacrificial to the core church. Will you bear this towel over your arm as Jesus would? If so, join us."

"If you believed God was speaking to you, how concerned would you be about the quality of your reception?"

"Obeying the Spirit instead of your own self-centered whims will lead you to places you've never been, challenge you in ways you have never been challenged, and invite levels of sacrifice you never dreamed you could make. This is the power and the promise of full-throttle faith, of living a life fueled solely by God."

Set List For August 7/8

2010-08-08T12:31:00.000-04:00

God Is Alive - Fee
You'll Come - Hillsong
Freedom Is Here - Hillsong United
Yours Forever - Hillsong United

Let The River Run - Carly Simon

if you missed the kickoff to the series 2020 Vision, you missed big time. Watch it online, get the cd, something. It's challenging and exciting, but it is NOT tame.

And this was week one. Awesome.

Set List for July 31/Aug 1

2010-08-03T11:25:00.002-04:00

Run - Hillsong
Freedom Is Here - Hillsong United
Enough - Chris Tomlin
With Everything - Hillsong

Offering: Love Like Fire - Hillsong

Song included in message: This is our God - Chris Tomlin

Amazed

2010-07-27T21:59:00.008-04:00

I just had the privilege to stand in front of 20+ members of our band, vocal and sound team. While we had some really important things to go over as we prepare to bring God our best in this next season of ministry, I couldn't keep my mind from wandering.
No, not wandering...I was marveling.

As I stood in front of these people - I looked around and was just amazed.
I was amazed at the talent in the room.
I was amazed by the collective sacrifice this group represents.
I was amazed at their eagerness for more, for better, for deeper.
I was amazed at their commitment to the cause of Christ.
I was amazed at the models of servant heartedness that were looking back at me.
I was amazed at friendships, new and old, that have been through the best of times and the worst of times...together.
I was amazed by the spouses and families that made it possible for these people to be here for this meeting, that make it possible for these people to use their gifts in this incredibly powerful way for entire weekends.

I was amazed that for some reason God has seen fit to let me be a part of such an outstanding, inspiring, engaging, gracious and loving group of people.

What's more amazing?
This group only represented a portion of the individuals that make up the rest of the Arts Team @ Meck!

WOW!

To all the Arts Team Volunteers -
the Arts Staff want you to know that we love you, we pray for you and we count ourselves extremely privileged to be able to serve and lead you. We are deeply grateful for each and every one of you. You truly are the best. You make Meck what it is, and that is an awesome thing indeed.

The best is yet to come...and it wouldn't be nearly as good without you!

Set List for July 24/25

2010-07-26T11:18:00.002-04:00

Rise and Sing - Fee
Your Name High - Hillsong
Your Hold Me Now - Hillsong
Cannons - Phil Wickham
Lead Me To the Cross - Brooke Fraser

Set List For July 17/18

2010-07-18T11:08:00.006-04:00

if you came to church on Saturday Night and joined us in the atrium since the thunderstorm knocked out our power :) this was the set:
Rise and Sing - Fee
Grace - Steve Gompers
How Great Is Our God - Chris Tomlin

If you Joined us on Sunday in the auditorium (with power :) here's the set:
Say, Say - Kristian Stanfill
Your Love Never Fails - Jesus Culture
Your Love Is Deeper - Phil Wickham
Stronger - Hillsong United
Made To Worship - Chris Tomlin

Either way, we worshiped and God was honored!

Rick brought a great word. If you missed it, check out the inet service or get a copy at the bookstore

Set List for July 10/11

2010-07-11T09:39:00.003-04:00

Freedom Is Here - Hillsong United
Desert Song - Brooke Fraser/Hillsong
Mighty To Save - Hillsong
Happy Day - Jesus Culture

Offering:
Beautiful, Beautiful - Francesca Battistelli (acoustic version)

Closing:
With Everyhing - Hillsong United

Set List for July 3/4

2010-07-04T16:14:00.004-04:00

Grace - Steve Gompers
All I Need - Hillsong United
Arms Open Wide- Hillsong United
Here Is Our King - DCB

Offering:
Kingdom - Kristian Stanfill

if you missed this weekend, I STRONGLY encourage you to catch it on the Internet campus.
If you were there, you might just wanna check it out again for fun ;)

Honored to serve Robby and the message God gave him this weekend. Powerful stuff.

Set List for June 26/27

2010-06-28T11:35:00.003-04:00

Boy Band Weekend!

Your Love Never Fails - Chris Quilala/Jesus Culture
Arms Open Wide - Hillsong United
God is Alive - Fee
Yours Forever - Hillsong United

Typical - Mute Math

Set List for June 19/20

2010-06-20T12:31:00.003-04:00

Acoustic Weekend..on purpose this time!
Keys: Rick
Acoustic Guitars: Andrew and Charlie
Cajon and Shaker: Taylor
Bass: Lane
Vocals: Brandy, Rose, Rick and Charlie

Set:
Desert Song
All I Need is You
Come Thou Fount
From the Inside Out
Rise and Sing

Offering:
Lay'em Down - Needtobreathe

209

2010-06-15T22:14:00.007-04:00

It's just a number...and yet, it's not just a number at all.

209 people took an incredible step of faith this past weekend.
209 people responded to the first great 'ask' of God with boldness.
209 beautiful, soaking wet people came up out of the baptism water as an outward sign of their inward commitment.

And the rest of us, had 209 reasons to fall to our knees yet again.

THIS is church.

I guess you heard by now...

2010-06-08T19:40:00.006-04:00

So, you probably all ready heard about our Saturday night service. But just incase, here's a recap:
5:50 - we finish an awesome dress rehearsal and are excited about the message we know Jim is going to bring
5:55 - the countdown clock starts (so do the butterflies anticipating a really awesome hour ahead!)
5:59:30 - the countdown is rolling but there is no sound! PANIC ALARM GOES OFF!!!

What in the world just happened?! The band can hear everything perfectly through their in-ears, you can hear out in the hall, the guy in the sound 'closet' recording for the internet campus is getting a feed just fine...but in the auditorium? Silence. Dead silence.

6:00 - Rick jumps off the riser and runs backstage to assess what's going on while Steven tries to figure out what in the world to say to the church while we're trying to figure out what's happening!

6:01 Nothing

6:02 What was that? Nope...nothing

6:03 See above

6:04 Again, see above

6:05 Wait...we hear something, nope. It's didn't work.

6:06 Steven is doing a great job not making this really awkward. Did he just say something about a huge explosion confined to a small area? Where does he come up with this stuff? And why does he keep talking in the mic? It's not working! Thank you God for his sense of humor!!!

6:07 The announcement is made: Our processor just blew up. We have no sound, so we're doing this unplugged...REALLY unplugged. The church is asked to move into the center section and fill in the empty seats, they do. The band members go off stage and start grabbing acoustic instruments. Is Andrew (our electric guitar player extraordinaire) playing a shaker? And then it happened...

6:08 One of the sweetest sounds I've ever heard - the church singing, and singing LOUD. There was definitely worship going on, without mics, without sound but with passion, with authenticity and with full devotion to Christ.

Our Senior Pastor gets up and 'shouts' the message God had given him...and the church responded in a huge way (that's for another blog).

Meck - there is no doubt, even without sound, we were "Living Out Loud". It's an incredible thing to be part of this community and the grace and love you poured out on the Arts Team this weekend was humbling...and moving.

It's an incredible thing that these people pictured below did to get through Saturday Night and then go all over town to set up a sound system so that we could have services on Sunday with sound, so that God's word could be heard loud and clear. They had no concern for how it would impact their Saturday night plans, how long it would take to get done, how much (or in this case, how 'little') sleep they would get, or how early they would have to return on Sunday morning. They knew what was at stake - and nothing was going to stop them from giving God their absolute best efforts...and boy did they did.
So today I want to salute Jeff, Keith and Christine, Ali, Mark, Rick, Andrew, Dave, Ray, Lane, Brandy, Charlie, Steven, Lindsay and Jim. You are my heroes! And this is what it means to be the church.

But you know what's super cool? If this processor explosion had happened the weekend before this...if this had happened this weekend coming...you know what? The response and results would have been EXACTLY the same. No matter what members of the Arts Team happened to be serving, I know without a doubt that every single person involved would have had the same exact response, commitment, dedication and heart about the whole thing. That's not 'normal' friends...and I'm SO glad I get to be a part of it.

God is so good.

So what do the weekly Arts Team planning/brainstorming meetings look like?

2010-06-03T13:05:00.010-04:00

Kinda like this...

What I learned at the Apple Store

2010-05-31T19:09:00.002-04:00

Set List For May 29/30

2010-05-30T12:13:00.003-04:00

Run - Hillsong
Freedom Is Here - Hillsong United
Revelation Song - Kim Walker/Jesus Culture Version
You Hold Me Now - Hillsong

Offering:
Believe - The Bravery