We’ve been looking recently at ideas for spontaneous worship, inspired almost entirely by a seminar I attended by Graham Kendrick. In the last post I described how Graham uses a basic groove and perhaps a chord sequence to provide a foundation for singing in an improvised style from the Psalms. I’ve done a bit more digging at crossrhythms.com and found some more fabulous material from him on the subject of “Psalm surfing” which he describes as worshipping God with an “open agenda”. Catching the waves as word and spirit combine in the improvised singing of Scripture – especially the Psalms. Seeking sacred space where creative adventures in prayer, praise and ministry can be inspired. Arts and voices together in Scripture-driven worship.
Using the Psalms in this way can refresh personal devotions as well as small group and public settings. Not only that, singers, songwriters, instrumentalists, poets, painters and dancers can find themselves riding new waves of inspiration.
Psalm Surfing rides 100% on the Word of God but responding to the inspiration of the moment and is a respite from predictable patterns. It also gives us a well earned break from the song list.
What is it good for?
What does it require?
It needs a few skills including:
Getting started
Things to consider
Make sure that you review, evaluate, remember and learn from your mistakes
Musical leadership options:
Scripture versions:
Things to avoid
Photo credit – Andy Pressdee (used with permission) and thanks to Graham Kendrick and Cross Ryhthms for the most of the content above.