Help, I Need Somebody!

Numbers 11:14

Rev. Dr. Scott K. Seidler

Moses said, “I cannot carry all these people by myself.”

The Beatle’s taught an entire generation to cry out, “Help, I need somebody…HEEELLLLLPPPPPP!”  It’s a great sentiment for our season of ministry at Concordia as well. 

While call committee’s search for future ministers of the Gospel, now is a great opportunity for us to step up and take the mantle of leadership which properly belongs to the people of God.  One of my dear colleagues who leads a congregation much like Concordia in the suburbs of Chicago is fond of the axiom, “God’s people serve God’s people.”  At Trinity Lutheran Church in Lisle, IL, Pastor Mark Schulz keeps his staff size very small in order to ensure that the work of the saints is very great.

I think we can learn and re-learn a lesson here.

First, in this season of ministry transition, I’ll be challenging our leaders where in our ministry we can increase the work of the saints over and against the work of the salaried and benefited. 

Second, let this be a reminder for our Christian homes that in family ministry, our congregational value is that ministry takes place first in the Christian home and is supported by the congregational ministry program. 

When questions about leadership capacity and direction arise among God’s people, our God is always present to inspire, encourage, challenge and call a broader shoulder of leadership than we might have even thought existed.  He does this so that our journey to the promised land of our salvation and deliverance, in Christ, may not be impeded.