Matthew 4:18-23
“As he walked by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon, who is called Peter, and Andrew his brother, casting a net into the sea—for they were fishermen.” vs. 18
As Jesus began his ministry, the first item on his “to do” list was to enlist some disciples, folks who he could teach and who he could send out on missions. These disciples would also insure the continuation of his ministry after he was gone. His initial choices are instructive. He didn’t choose the learned or wealthy. Instead he picked working class people, fishermen who made their living with their hands, and they became the leaders of the early Church. This pattern has continued through the centuries and it’s amazing to see how it works out in our congregations. Following Jesus’ example, leaders are chosen, not on the basis of degrees or status, but according to their spiritual gifts. As a result, congregational councils, those who lead the church on the grassroots level, come from every walk of life. Blue collar and white collar workers, engineers, laborers, teachers…sit side by side around our leadership tables and guide the direction of ministry. There are no distinctions, and the only requirement is a common desire to follow Jesus and engage in proclaiming the good news. Where congregations are attentive to using the gifts of the whole community, the talents of ordinary people bring extraordinary results.
Thought for the Day: How are leaders chosen in my congregation?
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