Tuesdays with Morris

Over the last two days, I’ve been preparing for a Leadership Team meeting at Center Chapel. We haven’t had our leaders together since our church charge conference (which I think was in October or November). That’s a long time to go between meetings of the elders. And, given the current circumstances at our church, we need to be getting our leaders together on a more regular basis.

With Rusty pretty much being on a leave of absence, many in the church are probably feeling vulnerable and concerned. Though things are steadily moving forward, the effect of a senior leader being out of the picture can cause many to simply sit still…to wait until things are sorted out before we make out next move. However, that’s probably the worst thing the leaders of a church can do. Leaders need to lead through the good and the bad. We need to be pro-active in our planning and in carrying out the mission and vision of the church. It’s unfair to Rusty to sit back and wait…letting things drag behind and pile up for his return.

I’ll be sharing a passage of Scripture with our leaders that I believe beautifully addresses our current situation. In Exodus 4:1-12, God calls Moses to go to the people and let them know what’s up. But, Moses says, “Oh no! I can’t do that!” Of course, God responds by saying, “Oh yes you can.” And He gives Moses a sign to show that he has met with the Lord. Again Moses says, “Surely I can’t do that.” And, once again God says, “Oh yes you can.” God gives Moses another sign to help the people believe that he has met with the Lord. Again, Moses says, “Oh no! I can’t do that! I’m a horrible speaker. I just can’t do it!” God says, “You can!” Then He provides Moses a way to communicate to the people (through his brother).

In all of the moments in which we feel inadequate to move forward, to do the work God calls us to…He provides the means necessary to accomplish His goals. He helps us overcome our inadequacies. It’s the whole, “God doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called” thought.

In the midst of the absence of our senior leader, many of our elders may feel unable to adequately keep things going. But, God is cheering us on…saying, “You can do this!”

Along with sharing our mission, vision, and goals, that’s where I’m heading with our meeting tomorrow night. Hopefully it will motivate, encourage, and challenge our leaders to step up to the plate.