In every group there is a hierarchy. We may not always know what it is but sooner or later the pecking order will make itself known. When I first came out of college I found that I was going to be the “last” to choose my vacation. It really wasn’t a problem, but I found the way that others had earned or deserved the chance to go first irritating to say the least! Later events showed that decisions related to our parking spots, desk locations, office selection, invitations to certain events, and who gave order to who was all based on a “known” hierarchy.
I hate hierarchies! If we are all equal then why can’t we make the decisions using different criteria? Why not need, or merit, or even hours on the job? Shouldn’t we invite the person who is interesting to the party instead of the person who is highest on the pole? What if we determined who would take on the leadership role by who actually had the gift?
The world is full of those in positions that do not really qualify to be there. One can see politicians that talk a good game instead of hearing, understanding, and representing their constituents. Then there are the managers who are better at managing their boss than leading those who work for them. If only we could see just how equal we are! What a difference our leveled arrogance would make.
Those who are in positions of insight and spiritual leadership are no different. The person walking with the latest media hype endorsement faces the same struggles in giving up self to God that you or I do. The individual in full type spiritual employment has the same access credentials that you and I carry. Everyone is in the same battle, a journey with opportunities for recreation and restoration.
Where do you and I stand in the hierarchy of life? “I’m a servant just like you, and like your brothers and sisters who hold to the witness of Jesus.” (Revelation 19.10)
With our standing comes opportunities.
