Those responding to the Leadership Survey overwhelmingly agreed that "For United Methodists, spiritual accountability includes the state of our soul and the fruit of our ministry." The vast majority of folks taking the survey also seem more than willingly to pray, study Scripture, participate in holy conversations, study the Call to Action report, set goals and measure results, become citizen advocates, celebrate the Spirit, and take other actions that support the reform of the UMC (question 22). Their commitment to these actions is commendable, however such practices will not address the need to hold each other accountable for the state of our souls.
When Wesley wrote about the soul he described thoughts, feelings, attitudes, and dispositions not just words and actions. Wesley's ministry was about inward soul changes as much as it was about changes in behaviors.
We need statistics on the number of egotistical jerks, arrogant bullies, judgmental scrooges, and anxious fear-mongers converted by grace through faith. Without commitment to this kind of practice, the UMC runs the risk of merely measuring the plaster over filthy tombs (Matthew 23:27).
Developing principled leaders must include giving them the skills to develop principled followers. What processes of "identifying, training, credentialing, appointing and evaluating clergy leadership" produce those kinds of skills?
4 comments:
You say: We need statistics on the number of egotistical jerks, arrogant bullies, judgmental scrooges, and anxious fear-mongers converted by grace through faith.
Yes. And, we need to know how many of the remaining "egotistical jerks, arrogant bullies, judgmental scrooges" are United Methodist Bishops.
Craig, I'm going to assume that you are attempting to be funny. Regrettably, your comment comes across sounding bitter. It's a good reminder to all of us that humor does not always communicate well in this medium.
Funny? No. Bitter? Yes. Sorry to clutter up your blog with it.
"In the name of Jesus Christ you are forgiven."
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