My hubby is doing a series right now at church and it if had to be titled anything it would be, “What are you in the House of God?” This is what I wrote for the cover of the bulletin…

“Are you a sinner, survivor, servant or a son in the House?”

The first is self-explanitory, if we’re not living a Christ-centred life where God is Lord of all… we’re sinners. The survivor is one who ducks responsibility; they fly under the radar or ask the question, “What’s in it for me?” before they do anything – if anything. The servant finds their identity and/or value in their labour – what they do for God is vital to them. Remove them from something or bring correction into their life and many times it’s viewed as a demotion or criticism; you’ve attacked their character and often times they leave the church offended.

A son (or daughter, don’t get all gender issue upset at me now…) is one who understands the balance between ownership and responsibility.

Here’s a small portrait of what a true son in the house looks like:

1) Makes changes, quickly ~ is teachable.
2) Invites correction and because they do, they are trustworthy.
3) A participant / producer, not always a consumer ~ even when it’s inconvenient.
4) Doesn’t always have a better way (of doing things, of teaching, or of organizing etc.).
5) Shows genuine concern for a father’s (leader’s) reputation.
6) In covenantal relationships. Doesn’t have a trail of broken relationships following them, they don’t give up on friendships despite a difference of opinion.
7) Doesn’t always want to take the reins (this goes along with #4).
8) Imitates a father’s (leader’s) faith ~ not image or style.
9) A cheerer of others. Secure ~ not threatened by the success or promotion of others.

In one house there will be many different people at many different stages of life but God wants us to mature ~ always moving forward ~ one step at a time. Growing up is a process that requires a lot of work but it is possible by making disciplined choices. This is the next thing we’re getting into!