Reflection: The gift of serving*
Hospitality can be a lonely, thankless and often underpaid job. You’re entirely dispensable, first to be blamed and often stuck doing the unglamorous jobs no one else wants.
Growing up, I tried to avoid those jobs at all costs.
I thought governance was a bit the same – it’s usually the job we gave to older folks, balding blokes, and socially awkward accountants if they were incapable of ‘actual’ ministry. Anyone else? No, just me? OK. (I won’t project).
But I’ve come to see those servants as indispensable gifts from God. Like Karen, who always asks that vexing question that zags, when everyone else is zigging (but deep down we know it’s the Spirit speaking… grr). And Trevor, who balances the books down to the nano-cent (and makes you dig out that long-lost receipt behind your bed). Or Jenny, who after 30 years as church secretary still insists on using shorthand to take minutes.
The word picture Paul paints of those with the gift of administration is striking: a sea captain navigating the open seas.
I need a rethink on how I see these folks. We need to affirm those with administrative gifts that quietly keep our churches and organisations rolling over, without whom we’d be in deep trouble.
If you’re passionate about governance, you’re not alone. God has gifted you in this way for a reason. We need you to serve.
When was the last time you personally and individually thanked your leaders at church, work or home?
Prayer: Father, thank you for those who you have gifted to steward, lead and administer your Body.
*A thought from James