In my denomination, being ordained involves a process. Truthfully, it can be long and grueling. There are meetings, evaluations, papers, interviews, projects, and plenty of waiting. My process went pretty smoothly, but there are many stories.
One criticism I've heard about the process, one I agree with, isn't really about the requirements. It's about an attitude.
Apparently, parts of the process used to be even more difficult. And sometimes people who endured the old system want to ensure the next person has an equally difficult experience.
You've probably encountered that attitude. Nobody gave me a break, so why should I give you one?
Acts 15 describes a different form of this problem. Some Jewish Christians believed that Gentile believers should take on the requirements and customs that had defined their own religious lives. They essentially said, "If you're going to follow Jesus, you need to carry what we've carried."
Peter didn't believe the Gentiles should have that "yoke" put on them. Then comes the foundation for his response.
"We believe that we will be saved through the grace of the Lord Jesus, just as they will."
Peter understood that the Church belonged to Jesus. And he reminded them that what was required of them wasn't what God required of everyone who came after them. And if Jesus welcomes people by grace, we should be careful not to add weight to their shoulders.
Now, there are burdens people need to carry. Responsibility and accountability matter. And growth is sometimes uncomfortable.
But difficulty for difficulty's sake is not a discipleship requirement.
So, give somebody a break today. Make the road clearer because you walked it first. Hold the door open instead of bragging about how hard it was for you to get through.
Let grace received be grace extended.
Jesus didn't make anyone deserve grace, and neither should we.
Stay blessed...john
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