One of my favorite ESPN segments is when the NFL GameDay guys break out the "Come On Man" part of the weeks highlights. Somebody whines about not making enough millions in their contract year: come on man! Some player makes a stupid decision: come on man! Some coach loses it unnecessarily: come on man! Some NFL player can't remember his kids names: come on man!
I've been around the church long enough to appreciate the same "come on man" phrase in the church as well. Here are a few of my favorites...
- Pastors who are confident that the church owes them gifts for anniversaries, Christmas, birthdays, etc. simply because they are in the office of the Pastor---Come On Man!
- Staff members who don't work hard - everyday - and become extraordinary golfers on the "ministry discount" at the local club - Come On Man!
- Deacons who will argue, fight and fume over a Pastor's salary or chosen sermon, or even a change in worship style, but won't lift a finger to serve widows, orphans, or hungry people in their own neighborhood - Come On Man!
- Musicians who are certain that they ARE the show and forget they are leading in worship...not building their resume - Come On Man!
- Young leaders that forget that more mature leaders have already been there, done that and have wisdom to share that is essential - Come On Man!
- Older leaders that forgot what it was like to long to lead something when you are a young leader called by God - Come On Man!
- Men who stand in worship and never let their kids see them sing, pray or praise, but will teach them their favorite school fight song before they are 5 years old - Come On Man!
- Christ followers who are dreadfully worried about how loud the music is, or what kind of clothes you came to church in, but never share Christ with anybody in need - Come On Man!
Wow, I feel better! Especially that I have just painted myself and most of you with a brush that is terribly unflattering. May we passionately strive to be loving, serving and sensible followers of Jesus this week.
Peace, Chuck
