Pastors, Preachers, Ministers--SERVANTS

I was driving by a nearby church this week and noticed a parking spot by the front door designated for the pastor. I thought about it for a few moments and it started to bother me. Now don't get me wrong, I believe every congregation should be autonomous in terms of only Jesus being the head of the church. But it nonetheless kept bothering me.

I was thinking and wondering if Paul would have wanted the church to treat him or other church leaders as such--as men to be put on a pedestal? I kept thinking about Jesus saying the first shall be last and the last shall be first. I am just troubled at how many churches around the nation and world treat their pastors, preachers, ministers or whatever they choose to call such men. So often I will see congregations lift these men up to a very high spiritual and otherwise leadership positions and put a lot of hope and trust in these men. I can tell you first hand having been a preacher and congregational leader these past few years--that not one of us can ever live up to such standards. We should do all we can to set a good example--but we are still human and flesh.

However, beyond that, I think it dangerous to ever to treat men as royalty who are not called to be "important" but instead--meek and mild and humble and a lowly servant! I am called to teach and lead God's people in my congregation--but I am a SERVANT LEADER. Jesus clearly teaches us that the Son of Man did not come to be served--but to serve and we are to follow in His footsteps.

Myself, I'd rather park in the farthest parking spot and let a visitor or another member park up front. I don't need honor and glory from people--I receive all the affirmation and love and value from my Father in Heaven!

Now should church leaders be given respect and be listened to and even obeyed at times--absoulutely! But such leadership has to be proven not just by words in the pulpit--but through daily actions at home, in the congregation, and in the community. Such respect and obeying of authority has to be earned. Simply having the "title" means absolutely nothing!

So when you see your preacher, pastor, or minister or just church leaders--give them respect and honor and listen to them. But not because of who they are--but because of WHO they represent!

May the Lord bless you today!

Bruce