I pushed my comfort zone again at church yesterday. This time when I was asked to do special music in worship I tried a bluesy version of “Just a Closer Walk” and it turned out to be a lot of fun. And – of course – the spirit-directed part of this meant that the music and Rebekah’s message tied in together like we’d planned it that way!
I played at both worship services, along with my men’s group friends Tim and Dan. Then, at 9:00, we also enjoyed the rich accompaniment of Hans on bass and Brett playing drums.
My inspiration for the arrangement was Van Morrison’s soulful version on his Hymns to the Silence double album. I slowed it down some, then changed out the verses for a hybrid sampling of well known hymn lines. The result was fun to do, and packed full with classic hymnology.
It’s great to be in worship as a faith community, regardless of the choice of music, but there is something compelling and poignant about the winsome invitation of this classic song; to walk more closely with Jesus; to experience and to share his kind of strength; to celebrate communion together around the Lord’s Table; to live – and to love – as followers of the Living Way…
– DEREK
I am weak, but Thou art strong;
Jesus, keep me from all wrong;
I’ll be satisfied as long
As I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Chorus... Just a closer walk with thee;
Grant it, Jesus, this my plea.
Daily walking close to thee;
Let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
Amazing Grace how sweet the sound
My sweet Lord, To Beulah Land I’m bound
A mighty fortress is our God.
Be thou my vision, Precious Lord.
Chorus...
Instrumental……
Just as I am – How can it be?
I once was blind, but now I see.
Dear Lord and Father of Mankind
This light of mine, dear Lord, let it shine.
Repeat Chorus last time….
