Michael Gungor is a friend and worship leader who is one of my biggest influences. His song, “Friend of God” written with Israel Houghton, has been one of the top songs sung in churches all over the world. He was the featured worship leader at the “Aquire The Fire" youth conferences. He and Israel wrote the song “Say So” (Michael version of the song)that made it on Israel’s album “A Deeper Level.” This album received a Grammy Award in 2008 for Best Pop/Contemporary Gospel Album.
The Michael Gungor Band has recently been in the studio working on the second studio project that will be released under the Brash Music Group. You almost cannot go on a ministry website without hearing about his humorous, and somewhat controversial song, “White Man” from their last released album"Ancient Skies"
Michael and his wife Lisa moved from Michigan to Denver and started meeting for once a month worship gatherings, as a gift to the community. These gatherings turned into house churches, and eventually a once a week worship gathering.
Israel Houghton and Michael Gungor
I needed to get some info from Michael today and called him. While on the phone, I asked him a few questions to get you all thinking about a few things that have to do with our next series, “Modern Day Monk” at The Journey Church.
Take time to really chew on some of the things that Michael brought out as he shared his heart.
(David) Do you see a difference between what American Christians believe worship is and what God has intended?
(Michael) That asks about such a broad group of people. It is a little hard to answer. Uh……Yes…..we are very far from living the life. It is a bigger problem than just the definition. Our language and definitions are important to think about, but it is more than that. But yes, we may have defined it in an unhealthy way as well.
(David)What is the importance of practicing spiritual disciplines as a follower of Jesus?
(Michael)I think that as in any endeavor, it takes discipline to do anything differently. Being a follower of Christ is becoming the ultimate creation. We have to relearn a lot. It’s not about crossing off a checklist or getting brownie points. Disciplines help us get where we need to grow.
(David)Tell us a little about “Love Train” that was started through Bloom (Michael’s Church in Denver)
(Michael)It is actually just getting started. It is a group of people communicating about social justice opportunities in the Denver area. It gets Bloom to creep out of the walls of the building. You start by signing up for a text message system. You usually get around two text messages a week about opportunities to help people in need. I actually just got a text message from “Love Train” right before I got on the phone to call you. It is a way to network and be a gift to the community.
(David) How does taking care of the poor and those in need affect our worship?
(Michael)It is our worship!!! Worship is the way that we are living. How can we actually say that we are following Jesus? How can we sit in our church and say “come Lord Jesus” when He isn’t just present in the church building, He is present among the poor and homeless as well? He said so!!! Our worship SHOULD INCLUDE taking care of the poor and those in need.
(David)How has pursuing this worship lifestyle helped transform your art and your songwriting?
(Michael)My theology was broadened to include the hurting humanity. When I first started thinking in this light it seemed romantic, but I found myself getting sweaty and frustrated from all of the work. It is hard when you smile at someone and they make fun of you for it. I realized that, at times, it could be messy and painful. I have written songs and have heard songs that have come from these times. This reality eventually freed me from trying to be the savior of the world. I am getting off subject a little, but all of this is to say that I don’t separate art from life.
