organized for excellence

This past week I had two separate conversations with new CLCers who told me they were just so impressed with the organization of our ministry, and the excellence with which we do things here. (Yes, staff: it was all I could do to keep from laughing both times, as we know how far we have to go in both regards :-)

At any rate, it was especially interesting to me to hear those observations from new attendees, not only because that IS one of our core values and genuine desires for everything we do at CLC, but specifically because of one of my Bible readings – actually on the same day as the conversations – from 1Chronicles 27:25-30.

Now, it may seem like so much dull detail to you, but I was struck first by how well-organized David’s kingdom was – I mean having specific individuals responsible for specific details – everyone knowing their job and authority and the parameters of their job descriptions is a beautiful thing.

But then I was especially struck by Jehdeiah from Meronoth. Did you notice his job? He was in charge of the donkeys. Think about it:

1. I’ll bet your job is already sounding better!

2. What does it mean to be ‘in charge of’ the donkeys? Does anybody really tell a donkey what to do? Isn’t that kinda like herding cats?

3. For all of you in ministry (not just pastors, but really ANY ministry position), have you ever felt you were in charge of the donkeys?

4. Before you get too carried away about your “donkey experiences”, may I point out that sometimes you and I are the donkeys! (Yep, I said it! I know I’ve been guilty more than once :-)

So the next time you’re feeling like your ministry position isn’t what you signed up for, and maybe you don’t appreciate the people God has given you to work with, just remember Jehdeiah and smile – ‘cause even the donkeys need to be organized, and somebody has got to be responsible for them!