Asaph was the chief, and next to him in rank were Zechariah, then Jaaziel, Shemiramoth, Jehiel, Mattithiah, Eliab, Benaiah, Obed-Edom and Jeiel. They were to play the lyres and harps, Asaph was to sound the cymbals … 1 Chronicles 16:5

Today’s Scripture Reading (August 29, 2013): 1 Chronicles 16

We are a culture that is attracted to certain personalities. It is evident in our favorite sports figures, but it goes beyond that. Even in the world of politics, the question of who we support often goes beyond the policies to the simple idea of whether or not we like them – whether we feel attracted to them and can trust them. In my part of the world we are currently heading for a civic election, and I have to admit that of all of the times that I am asked to vote, this is the hardest one because I often have no idea who the people are. How can I be asked to trust someone with my vote, when I have no way of knowing whether or not I can like them?

We are not immune to the phenomenon inside the church. Inside the church it is a matter of who we are willing to listen to – especially in the area of worship music. I have relatives (especially an aunt and an uncle) that love the Gaither’s – and so anything that comes from that the camp is immediately given attention – a trust has been earned. For me, it is more likely to be things that come out of the Passion camp (Louie Giglio.) The artists that come under that banner I want to listen to – they have earned my trust.

We trust because we see value. These are the leaders that have taught us something – and have ushered us into the presence of God. And it was no different in the days of David. This list is really a list of the top spiritual and worship leaders of David’s day. And at the head of the list is Asaph. Aspah had earned a reputation as a worship leader even in the days of David – even though he was the ancient equivalent of a modern day drummer. While David had written many of the Psalms in the Psalter, Asaph also made his contribution to the song book of the Jewish church. And it was Asaph that is chosen as the chief of those that would minister in front of the Ark of God. It was an honor given to a worship leader that had earned the trust of David and the people.

Another notable name among this group of notable musicians is the name of Obed-Edom. While Obed-Edom was apparently a musician (he is listed as a man who played the lyre – a hand held instrument with probably either six or seven strings – and the harp), but it is likely that his inclusion on this exclusive list is not because of his musical talent. Obed-Edom was the owner of the home in which David had left the Ark of the Covenant for three months. He had earned the trust of David – and the trust of the nation. And there is really nothing more attractive than being someone that can be trusted.    

Tomorrow’s Scripture Reading: Psalm 42