For Whose Glory?

I remember that I was stunned to learn how much of my Christian ministry was based on self-interest when, of all things, I went into business.  I went into business when I was 22, first by taking over and running my father's estate. 

Before, in college, I had studied to be a pulpit preacher.  Thus, because of my field of study and the common knowledge of what I wanted to do, I had many opportunities to teach, preach, lead evangelistic campaigns, etc.  All the time, I assumed I was doing everything "to the glory of God.”  Occasionally, I would find myself feeling hurt, if I wasn't asked to speak at this chapel service or that devotional, all because "I had something to share and was disappointed I didn't have the opportunity to share it." 

Then, amazingly enough, when I began my work in business, I found that the old hurts and disappointments disappeared.  Do you know why?  It was because I had begun to receive most of my ego strokes in business.  And, suddenly, the horrible realization dawned on me, what I thought was disappointment at not getting to "share a message on my heart," was really a bruised ego, disappointment at not getting another chance to be before an audience, practicing my craft, and receiving more strokes.

Now, I don't want you to think that whenever I preached, or preach, for that matter, my primary motive is to have people think that I do a wonderful job and I am an outstanding guy.  Rather what I am saying is, if this is one percent of my motive—that is one percent is too much.  It means there is still too much of self that is alive.

I realize those of us who are on church staffs are the ones, who probably struggle with this attitude the most with respect to "church related activities" simply because we, humans, get so much of our ego fulfillment from our jobs, but guess what?  You, members, who are not employed by the church, are not immune.  I know you have, at times, struggled with this problem because you have told me.

What if, for you and me, Paul’s words truly became real? “So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God” (I Cor. 10:31.)

Five Things I Think I Think (with a nod to Peter King for this idea)

1. The family and I saw a lot of the Lyndon Johnson legacy in Austin last week. I would highly recommend touring the LBJ Library and the LBJ Ranch. I was shocked at the prices: free admission and parking at the library; $2 for adults 18 and older at the LBJ Ranch—17 and under get in free. My kids really enjoyed these tours, and they are not historical buffs—trust me.

2. Austin is a great city to visit—lots to do and very historical. But the traffic is still too much for me. Also, we were surprised at how many lots in the city looked tacky—like uncared for pastures. I could never imagine Tyler letting that happen.

3. We don’t eat out much, but we did some last week. One place we had never experienced before was Pei Wei. They served good Chinese food for a nice price. We enjoyed the ambiance as well. The Edge family gives Pei Wei twelve thumbs up.

4. Unless my daughter, Haleigh, was holding something back—and I don’t think she was—the UT Volleyball Camp was a good experience. The staff had a good grip on teaching, placing girls in the appropriate levels of competition, and offering adult supervision. I am pleased we were able to send Haleigh.

5. I have had a lot of fun speaking at different churches this summer. If any of you reading this blog are from the MacArthur Park church of Christ in San Antonio, I am looking forward to spending time with you this Wednesday night.