When Elders Count

There is mounting evidence of just how treasured our Elders are here at WCCC. One of our Elders spoke yesterday during a brief ceremony recognizing the babies born in 2004. In just a few minutes he gave some of the most profound, Biblical, fatherly advice and exhortations I've ever heard. It was just absolutely perfect. And it impressed the socks off of most of the congregation. He didn't have any coaching or a lectionary to follow, instead it came from the deep well of his own faith.

I think most people's experiences with Elders is both limited and somewhat negative. In many churches the Elders (or the Deacon Board, or the one CEO-like pastor, or whoever is really in control) come off pretty bad. They may be overbearing micro-managers, or perhaps they are old-guard stalwarts whose sole job is to apply the brakes to anyone showing enthusiasm. Some are just generic board members, or deacons with seniority, or they are just transplanted businessmen who are there to apply their business acumen to the church, not considering the spiritual part of the equation first.

There are probably a thousand ways to misunderstand what the role of an Elder should be. And apart from a healthy, functional family, there aren't very many examples for the church to follow. And imperfect people at church (like ministers) are often reluctant to give up control and prestige. But when the Eldership is working, it really works. And it feels right, like a family get-together where everyone feels loved.

These men are the fatherly shepherds of our congregation. They are respected for their deep and long walks with the Lord. Deacons and Sunday school teachers, preachers and little kids all heed their advice and guidance. We trust them. And they are humble, self-less, encouraging, and servant-hearted.

I was talking to an individual about yesterday and asked them, "But didn't you know this is the way it's supposed to be, the way the Bible describes Elders?" And they answered, "Well, yes, but I didn't think it was actually possible."