Who's In Charge?

As most of you know, for so many years I was the senior pastor of the churches I served. That meant, one might say, “being in charge.” I was the one leading the services, leading staff, leadership, and board meetings. It meant setting the course and giving instructions, direction, and correction. Now, however, I find myself in a very different position.  

It struck me the other day as I sat in a meeting for all the trainers at the gym where I have begun to work part-time. The training manager had called us together for our monthly meeting. Now I was on the other side listening to her give instructions, direction, and correction. She was the one setting the course. I was now in a place I had not been in for so many years. And I won’t say that it didn’t feel a little tough. 

But can you imagine what would have happened if in that meeting I decided that I wanted to be the leader? Can you imagine what it would have been like if I had tried to take over the meeting and give my own instructions, direction, and correction to the team? Well, that would have been a disaster—and the end of my work there!  Instead, I had to settle into my place and consider the fact that in this field and with her position, she has much more experience and knowledge than I have. And she has the responsibility and authority to lead the team. My role is to follow. 

It's the same in our relationship with Jesus. So often we want to be in charge and set for the course for how we live. We want to make our own decisions and determine the direction we will go—i.e., we want to be the boss! But, Jesus calls us to lay down our lives, to become a servant, and allow him to be in charge as he calls us saying, “Follow me.” 

Jesus said, “Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. Whoever serves me must follow me….” (John 12:25-26a – NIV)  You see, to experience all that Jesus wants to give to us and came to do for us, we must allow him to be in charge. We must take our role as a servant and follower. 

So who’s in charge of your life? Who’s the leader? Let me encourage you to allow Jesus to set the course for your life. Allow him, through his Word and by his Holy Spirit, to instruct, direct, and correct you as you walk life’s way.  As you do, he will bless you, help you, and lead you into his gift of eternal life. 

Have a great day!  

- Pastor Tim Harris