Numbers 11:16, 24-29

“So the Lord said to Moses, ‘Gather for me seventy of the elders of Israel, whom you know to be the elders of the people and officers over them; bring them to the tent of meeting, and have them take their place there with you.’” vs. 16

When Moses had his meltdown and complained to the Lord about the burdens of leadership, Numbers reports that the Lord had a simple solution. Seventy elders from among the tribes were chosen to stand with Moses in his leadership role. To put it simply, the Lord told Moses, “It’s not all up to you.” That simple directive has become a foundational truth for the people of God, and it’s especially true in the Church. We are a community of faith, the Body of Christ, and individually members of it. Each of us have different callings that are derived from the gifts of the Spirit, but nobody carries the whole load. Of course the Body functions best when each person faithfully does their part, and falters when some bow out or imagine that their presence makes no difference. But when congregations are attentive to this rule of faith, wonderful ministry can take place. No one feels left out, the burdens of leadership are shared, and the gifts of all are identified and nurtured. Under that operating structure, no one is indispensable, and everyone is priceless, and the whole Body is blessed.

Thought for the Day: How do I feel when it’s all up to me?