Since I didn’t grow up in church, I didn’t know any of the lingo.
This became obvious when I went to the first church Judy and I led–a very traditional denominational church in the Midwest.
I was walking down the hall one Sunday morning when a lady grabbed me by the arm and said, “Why won’t you answer me?”
“I’m sorry,” I answered, “I didn’t hear you calling my name.”
“Oh, I would never call you by your name. That would be disrespectful, I was screaming, ‘Pastor.’”
I figured I should learn my new title, but inwardly I grieved it.
Respect is one thing; hierarchical church leadership is quite another.
Religious pedestals only serve two purposes: hiddenness and disappointment. The ones on the pedestals have to hide; the ones looking up will eventually be disappointed.
I have another title that I’d like to embrace.
The same title Paul embraced:
“Chief of Sinners”
If we’re honest, it’s a title we can all embrace.
Especially when we consider God’s standard for righteousness–the perfect life of His Son, Jesus.
So, if you’re a leader, step down from your pedestal. If you’re a follower, stop putting him or her on it.
