If I were called to teach,
I'd give it my best.
If I were called to preach,
I'd better pass the test.
If I were called to reach,
I'd do it with much zest.
If I were called to each,
I'd surely need some rest.
Mt. 11:29b
~~
We, often, hold high expectations for our spiritual leaders (as does God) to teach, minister, give guidance and direction, to be the example, live what they preach, and to be available, willing, and able to meet our need. We truly are blessed when we have such a person in our life.
However, were we to multiply our need by the entire membership of our church, we would see that our expectation is somewhere between unrealistic and nearly impossible. Leadership often finds themselves between a rock and a hard place as, even for the most devoted of servants, there aren't enough hours in a day.
What a good thing it would be were we to give something in return:
1.) to volunteer services to make their load easier.
2.) to not lean on them but upon God.
3.) to only ask for help when we can't find resolve.
4.) and, to try to become more like the expectations we have for our leaders.
Perhaps, then, we could begin impacting our world for Christ while allowing our leaders the same privileges we have... to have a family and a life.
© by Joyce C. Lock
http://our.homewithgod.com/heavenlyinspirations/
This writing may be used in its entirety, with credits in tact,
for non-profit ministering purposes.
About the Author
Joyce C. Lock is a published author, poet, and columnist. In addition, she founded and maintains the e-mail ministries "Heavenly Inspirations" http://groups.yahoo.com/group/HeavenlyInspirations/ and "Share a Smile" http://groups.yahoo.com/group/smilesharing/. Joyce's writings encourage us in our relationship with God and each other.