Marks of a Worthy Mission: Part 2, A Team Approach
In our age of individualism and pragmatism we’re likely to have some misunderstandings about why we’d seek to create a team. We might assume it’s because a job is too big to do alone or perhaps because it requires an area of expertise in which we lack a particular skill. These can both be true, but both are also products of a culture obsessed with efficiency. Meaning, our society tends to invite others into a project only as a last resort. Our requests of others are reserved for the end of our rope; for when we see no other way. We reason that because others are already busy and further communication will only frustrate our timelines, that the project itself would be better served with as few personalities as possible. The adage is convincing: “If you want something done right, do it yourself.”
At FCA, though, we believe that community is not simply for the sake of efficiency. Our eternally Triune God is a God of relationship and He has crafted us in His image for relationship. He has imprinted on us an inherent need for community. Because of this truth we’re convinced that even if the vision weren’t too big, and even if we did possess the particular skills needed, that we still ought to invite others into our Kingdom work. I’m pulling the “Jesus-card” on this one: even He enlisted a team! It certainly wasn’t a matter of efficiency. He could’ve accomplished His earthly mission as quickly as He brought galaxies into existence, but He chose to invite others into this Kingdom work. And He still does.
So, rather than stating, “we need a team to accomplish our vision”, we’re convinced, simply, that “we need a team”. At FCA we aim to involve others through prayerful invitations and help them discover how their gifts can be used for eternal purposes. As conduits of Kingdom work we continue to witness a two-fold blessing: on those pouring, as well as those poured into. To withhold this invitation, then, would be a disservice to everyone involved. The team-approach is an essential part of our "Great Co-mission”.
Here are a few questions I’ve used to cultivate and clarify my team approach:
Am I reducing my team approach in the name of efficiency?
Am I trying to prove myself to others?
Do I tend to be impatient while working with others?
How can I better listen to my community?
Who am I involving in my work alongside me this week?
