It’s a typical conversation opener at UCAN events. The well intentioned question ‘What’s your role at the church?’ is met with the response ‘I’m JUST the administrator’. It may be an unintentional slip of the tongue, but it often betrays something poignant about our sense of value and calling for the role that we are in.
At the recent Cutting Edge day conference, held in Canada Water in February, our speakers challenged the attendees to influence the way their church operates (in planning, people management, systems and structures) to help it maximise its Kingdom impact. Again, the response was heard: ‘Can I do that? I’m not the Vicar or Pastor… I’m, JUST the [insert administrative title here].’
We’re now two weeks into Lent, preparing for the new-life, hope and transformation that Easter brings. At church this morning, the visiting speaker encouraged our congregation that lent is both a time for ‘giving things up’ and ‘taking things on’. Therefore, please be encouraged, starting now and continuing beyond lent, to give up the use of ‘JUST’ when considering your role. Instead take on the affirmation of your calling and gifting, reminding yourself that you are known and called by God (Isaiah 43), a valued part of the body of Christ (Romans 12) and equipped with the spiritual gift of Administration (1 Corinthians 12). You are not just anything.
In all things, look to Jesus who is the author and perfecter of our faith (Hebrews 12) so that you won’t grow weary or lose heart. Be reminded that He will give us wisdom and influence by his Spirit (1 Corinthians 2), for we can have the mind of Christ. It’s a powerful promise. Maybe we should remember this next time someone in a church service says ‘Let’s JUST pray…’
So go on, make 2020 an UNjust year, for your sake and the sake of the Kingdom. If you need further encouragement, look to the words of St. Nike: ‘JUST do it’.
Andrew Bagwell – Executive Director