Is it possible to put Devotions and Disney in the same sentence and still be serious? Unfortunately, it has been done (by people in the LCMS, no less).

Today (April 22, 2008) is the 10th Anniversary of a worship service held at the Oregon Pastors’ Conference (Northwest District LCMS) which my family has called the “Disney Service” (available for download). Included in the service were three texts set to familiar Disney tunes from Disney movies:

• We’re Forgiven – “Be My Guest” from Beauty and the Beast
• Pray to God – “Kiss the Girl” from The Little Mermaid – pay special attention to the versification of the Lord’s Prayer.
• Will They See the Lord in Us? – “Can You Feel the Love Tonight?” from The Lion King

Before you ask if this is some sort of practical joke, I assure you that it did occur. Both of my parents were there and witnessed it (with disapproval). However, I was told that a number of people embraced it.

And what is my point? No matter the quality of the text (or lack thereof), the associated tune makes a BIG difference. What will people think as they sing these songs? I would suspect scenes from the respective Disney movie. Dancing furniture and kitchen utensils. A romantic boat ride. Music has power and musicians and pastors have a high responsibility to use music to faithfully proclaim the Word — not trivialize or obscure it.