Wednesday, February 8, 2012

A salute to capable people

Recent reading in 1 Chronicles reminded me of the counsel of a mentor. Pastor Green said, “If you can find a church custodian who can keep the church clean without becoming angry because others are inconsiderate and make it dirty, a person to organize the nursery so children are safe and parents happy, and a treasurer who can handle God’s money without becoming possessive of it, you can lead any church!” He was right! And, I have been privileged to know capable people in each church where people called me “pastor.”

The three groups of capable men in 1 Chronicles 26 included gatekeepers (verses 6-8), treasurers (verses 20-28), and record keepers (verses 30-32). King David was able to confidently delegate responsibilities because the men to whom he assigned work were capable, skilled, willing. I salute those men and women who have happily filled key roles well behind the scenes. They have made the task of leading pure joy. Their contributions of time and talent are written in the heavenly records. God bless them!

In a few days Pat and I will travel to Indiana to celebrate my father-in-law’s ninetieth birthday. Roy Kolas is a member of Tom Brokaw’s “Greatest Generation.” Family and close friends will salute a veteran of World War Two, an entrepreneur businessman, a member of First Assembly of God his entire life and a deacon-elder for more than 50 years. His son is a pastor, as are two sons-in-law. The family Christian bookstore business is managed by his youngest daughter and her husband. Roy Kolas’ grandchildren all serve the Lord and are teaching their children to be disciples of Jesus. He is a “capable man.”

Another observation, capable men work in teams. Gatekeepers, treasurers and record keepers all enjoyed a supporting cast of workers who shared responsibility. No one can do it all. No one reaches their full potential without others. Thank God for capable people who share the work!

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