If gospel artists are doing the job right, their primary purpose is to be way-showers to God. God has entrusted them with gifts of their voices and their communication abilities (writing, speaking, etc.) to spread His message. But at the end of the day, when they get back on that bus and go home, they are human and dealing with "stuff", like the rest of us.
For many years, I've written about how fandom can bring people together. I have also noted that when the "stuff" starts getting in the way it can split people apart. Sometimes, we let our own stuff and some of our unfulfilled needs get in the way of the true purpose for being there.
Some fans put too much extra effort into trying to make these artists fill some of these needs. I've seen those that are so intent on getting their attention that sometimes they take a little too much time at the meet and greet or even break in on another person's conversations with them, fearing that someone else is going to take the artists' focus off of them.
However, artists can also bring their "stuff" to this same table. I've seen times when some have played to an audience of one or two when there are actually hundreds in attendance. Artists need to be careful to not show obvious favoritism to those who may be especially demonstrative and there should never be a hierarchy of fan support. The fan that comes with a simple encouraging word should be as valuable as the one who comes bearing gifts. I also wouldn't want to feel that I am less of a fan because I don't, or can't, get to most of the shows on somebody's schedule.
Now, I am not saying that things such as gift giving, baking, etc. are wrong in and of themselves. If it's done out of sincere appreciation and not meant to be an attention-getting device, it's a nice way to show support. We need to honestly search our hearts. Do those giving gestures say "I appreciate what you do" or do they say "notice me" or "I want to be close personal friends"?
As fans and supporters, we need to do two things. One is to encourage the artists' work and talents. Let them know that what they do is valued and being used in the way in which it's intended. The other is to let God do the rest. Walk through the doors of relationships and ministry that He opens and it will be more fulfilling than any door you may try to beat down on your own.
Wendy Vickers
http://www.wendyv.com
http://www.embraceencouragement.com
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Written: 09/01/2008
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Category: Wendy Vickers
Comments: 1
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Very well said, Wendy. I've had artists tell me that my letters have come at just the right time & meant a lot to them. Artists need all the encouragement they can get. It's not easy to be on the road away from families week after week.
God is good all the time & all the time God is good.
Elaine Harcourt
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