The Job Description of a Disciple

16Sep
The saying is sure: whoever aspires to the office of bishop desires a noble task. Now a bishop must be above reproach, married only once, temperate, sensible, respectable, hospitable, an apt teacher, not a drunkard, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, and not a lover of money. He must manage his own household well, keeping his children submissive and respectful in every way— for if someone does not know how to manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church? He must not be a recent convert, or he may be puffed up with conceit and fall into the condemnation of the devil. Moreover, he must be well thought of by outsiders, so that he may not fall into disgrace and the snare of the devil.

Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money; they must hold fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience. And let them first be tested; then, if they prove themselves blameless, let them serve as deacons. Women likewise must be serious, not slanderers, but temperate, faithful in all things. Let deacons be married only once, and let them manage their children and their households well; for those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and great boldness in the faith that is in Christ Jesus.

-1 Timothy 3:1-13


Upon hearing the job description today in the book of Timothy for a Bishop or Deacon, it might give someone pause. Just how many of these qualities do I personally have? In a way there are many job descriptions for all kinds of roles and relationships such as being a spouse or partner. Or maybe how to be a good parent, or a good friend, or a participating member of a church or a social group. . As we celebrate Creation Care here at Trinity, we recall our a job description as humankind is to “til and keep” the earth and care for it. Or as we approach our local election time, we might ask, “What is the job description we seek in the candidates who are running for Mayor or City council? What is the job description of responsible citizenship?


We find ourselves pulled in many directions, and very possibly might be overwhelmed with all the job descriptions that we face. So in order to keep ourselves focused, we might consider the job description for being a follower of Jesus. It might end up being the shortest of all. Love the Lord your God with your heart, soul, and mind, and love your neighbor as yourself. Forgive someone when you have been wronged, and be in service of your sisters and brothers. Short? Yes. Easy? No. Actually, very challenging. However, if we can manage to live the job description of being a follower of Jesus as authentically as possible, everything else should fall into place. 


Musical Reflection - The Earth Shall Know - the Porter's Gate


Almighty God our heavenly Father, send down upon those who hold office in this City the spirit of wisdom, charity, and justice; that with steadfast purpose they may faithfully serve in their offices to promote the well-being of all people; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

For Local Government, BCP p. 822

New TestamentForgivenessCreationServicePentecost Stewardship

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