Appearances 2

Luke 11:43

I find it very disturbing at times when I realize how much many of the church leaders in our denomination behave like the Pharisees Jesus criticized. Our annual conference is coming soon – a weeklong gathering of pastors and leaders to hash out the business of the church. And there are so many who will flaunt the fact that they are clergy, in the way they act, in the way they dress, in the way they speak to others.

As part of the six woes Jesus points out to the Pharisees and leaders at dinner, there is a problem with their social behavior. What do they do wrong? Is it the behavior or the attitude, or both, which is wrong?

There is a bit of prestige and privilege in being a member of the clergy. Spiritual needs and our relationship with God are a high priority, which is why most clergy are given preferential treatment in hospitals, being permitted access to areas normally off limits.

There are other benefits in other areas of society as well, but they are primarily there to help the clergy person do his or her job. It is not a series of rewards. Yet, so many religious leaders let their position go to their heads and they act arrogant.

But those who are not in the clergy can do the same. Christian laity can also lord it over people that they “know God.” They are forgiven. They are good people. Their attitudes can be very aloof and judgmental.

But we are not here to be lifted up over other people. In fact, we are called to serve one another. In John 13 Jesus washes the disciples’ feet to show how we should act.

In John 13:14 Jesus says, “Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet.”

DAILY CHALLENGE: Which “seat” in God’s kingdom will you occupy?