Saturday, March 26, 2011

The Art of Invisible Leadership

This year, Paducah's youth ministry network hosted Dave Hunt as worship leader for the area-wide DiscipleNow weekend.  Dave has been leading worship for over a decade.  Based in Nashville, Dave has enjoyed the support of exceptional musicians to back him up over the years.  His band for Paducah's DiscipleNow weekend was no exception.  The four-piece band led effectively Friday and Saturday night, encouraging powerful moments of worship from the 400+ students and adults in attendance.  Several popular modern and traditional hymns were chosen for the services.  One of the most poignant song selections was "Search Me, O God", a confessional reflection of Psalm 139 written by Dave and Julie Hunt.

What has always struck me about Dave is his humility and the way he gets out of the way in corporate worship.  In an age where much of the Christan music scene is indulgent and self-promoting, one should appreciate Dave's demeanor and approach to worship leadership.  He doesn't over-sing, opting to stay true to the melody for the sake of the congregation who follows him.  You won't typically hear Dave show off on his acoustic, although he's an exceptional guitarist.  Dave consistently strikes an unusual balance of invisible, but effective leadership while on stage.  It's a clear gift, and one of his greatest assets as a worship leader.

Dave's newest cd release, LOVE ABOUNDS includes several original songs that were written with corporate worship as the goal.  Check out Dave's music on itunes: http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/love-abounds/id322554737.