Mike Bonem
I treated myself to a Frappuccino the other day, the first time I’ve had one in over 2 years. I was surprised when the barista gave me a paper straw for my drink. I know that plastic straws are a serious environmental problem, so in principle I’m in favor of paper straws. But as my straw became soggy, I had trouble finishing my drink and found myself wishing for the plastic version.
My experience illustrates one of the biggest challenges facing churches (and many other organizations) today. Even when people know the right thing to do, they are often reluctant to make a choice that involves personal sacrifice. Instead, they will rationalize taking the easier or more comfortable option. “My use of one paper straw isn’t going to save the environment so I’ll take a plastic one.”
Think about it. If you could wave a magic wand to fix one issue in your church, what would it be? Lack of volunteers? Poor engagement in community outreach? Low levels of financial giving? In each case, church members are aware of biblical principles and the church’s needs, but they choose personal comfort anyway. Even a reluctance to engage in a discussion about a controversial topic is often just a choice to avoid discomfort.
There aren’t any quick fixes for these issues, but there is a solution. At the risk of giving the expected “Sunday school” response, the answer is Jesus. Seriously. What else will cause people to consistently sacrifice their own desires and comfort for others?
How will a congregation become serious about following Jesus? We love stories of a life suddenly changed in a worship service, but these are the exception, not the rule. Moving the needle for an entire congregation occurs through consistent Bible study, life-on-life discipleship, and prayer. Embedding this into the DNA of a congregation requires intentionality and consistency over a long period of time.
Am I saying that a church shouldn’t have a special emphasis on volunteer recruitment or generosity or mission involvement? Not at all. But I am saying that pastors and ministry leaders should invest at least as much energy to create a culture of ongoing discipleship. Without this, it’s just too easy to choose comfort … and plastic straws.
