Currently Listening to: To Be Loved by Thad Cockrell
More reading. More questions.
"There is, however, a second temptation in ministry: the temptation to give up powerlessness through spiritual pioneerism. One of the most conspicuous forms of faithlessness in the ministry is the blatant individualism. of the ministers. Seminaries often seem to be training grounds for individual stardom. But Jesus did not send His disciples out one by one. He ordered them to go out together. The powerlessness of the minister reveals itself when the ministry is perceived and lived out as a shared vocation. Much competition and rivalry within the ministry, as well as much of the loneliness and frustration of ministers, find their basis in this rugged individualism." -Nouwen
This quote stings a bit. I think its true. It is certainly what we reward it seems to me. Sure, we have a responsibility to develop as individuals but this should always play out in the community as well. I'm certain that competition rivalry, loneliness and frustration aren't a part of the ministry I signed up for. Seems like our American ideal runs against the grain of the Gospel on this one. It works great for John Wayne and Indiana Jones but not for us. Agree?
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