Take the time to treat people like… people
It’s been such a trying day on so many levels. I can’t even begin to tell you how it feels actually. But only one thing can emerge from such miserable circumstances and that is a lesson learnt.
Just this afternoon, after a series of circumstances, I learnt that some friends of mine would be leaving church. While I fully comprehend the simple fact that people do indeed move on with their lives and that it also includes their place of worship, these friends aren’t leaving quite on good terms.
Let me clarify first by saying that this is by no means a rant of any kind. I’m not particularly upset with anybody, just really sad about the circumstances that surround this migration. Neither do I believe it’s exclusive to the church environment. In fact, organisations around the world face the issue of employees leaving due to dissatisfaction with management.
That’s not the point though. The church is not just any organisation, but a place where love, joy and a sense of communion should exist because we gather as a body of individuals to worship God and to learn more of His Word in a positive, nurturing environment. I can imagine that a slight in the church environment would be far more hurtful than one in another organisation on the premise that the expectations from both groups are distinctly different. People don’t expect to be guarded in church, but they might in the workforce.
I know that not all churches are like this and this is by no means a criticism but rather an observation. There are many times where those in leadership positions are not transparent in their actions. It leaves people wondering what the rationale behind a particular action is. I am not saying it is imperative that every single detail needs to be told. That’s up to the leader how open he or she is when dealing with members. However, it is beneficial for members to know at the very least that you are considering or have considered their perspectives. I personally believe that people will understand if you are open and honest with them. They might not agree with what’s happening, but there needs to be a platform where everyone is able to share freely. Things might get heated, but it is the part of every believer to remain right before the Lord.
However, there are also times when the leadership needs to put their foot down. And I believe it is in those times that members need to be submissive. By submissive I don’t mean blindly following what another has to say, but in humility before the Lord, accept the decision and commit the rest of it to the Lord. Even if you disagree. The Lord rewards obedience. We need to put more stock in what the Word of God says.
Everyone is human, both members and leaders alike. Everyone’s learning and there is always room for mistakes as long as all of us learn from it. Having experienced both and also being sandwiched in the middle of it all, I understand the difficulties of both parties. We really need to pray for a breakthrough in this area.
Sigh.
Ultimately, I have come to a few conclusions. I need to be open and honest with the people around me and to trust them with my vulnerabilities. Fairness is important. And not to forget to pray for my leaders and members alike.
