April 2008

“Pull Together”

They were covered in mud, head to toe. Their names, faces, and entire bodies had been drug through the mud, literally. It was a great day for the all camp tug - of - war. As the team sloshed their way out of the mud the crowd cheered them on. So energized by the crowd, they headed back to the rope and readied themselves for the next round of action. This time would be different, this time they would be pulling together. They had also invited a few new, fresh arms to jump in and pull with them. When the whistle blew they began chanting, "Pull, Pull, Pull". The rope stretched and the team pulled together with all of its power. It was evident to the crowd that something had changed. In the previous contest, the team worked as individuals but now they had decided to work together. The momentum had switched and it was the other team that was now covered with fresh mud.

As I reflected on this event that I had watched a few years ago at camp, it occurred to me, that this is just like the church. No, not that we are trying to pull other people or churches into the mud. But that we are more effective for the kingdom of God when we pull together. How important it is as we see the needs in our community and world, that we understand that fact. It is seen in our community when we work together with our sister churches to minister to youth, children and to those in need. It is a wonderful "Kingdom Statement" when we grab hands with Gethsemane, Community Country, Mount Olivet, St. Mary's, St. Edwards, and Word of Life, to minister in the name of Jesus Christ. It is too tempting to say, "I would rather do it myself."

Pulling together is also a struggle inside every church. We can become very independent in the different tasks of the church and feel that we should just do it ourselves. Pastors are notorious for the habit of holding on to certain ministries when the pulling team should be expanded. There actually may be a few people who would say, "I would like to help in the ministry" but they are not sure how to get started. So, I want to encourage all of us to partner up with others to accomplish the tasks that God has put before us.

In Proverbs 4:12:

Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.

This can be effective even as we attend the special events of the church. Call a new person in the church or someone who doesn't attend church and invite them to come along. The "buddy system" will truly help us accomplish the goals of the day and build lasting relationships to further the ministry of the kingdom of God. I invite everyone to grab a hold of the rope and pull together.

Pastor Craig