In our previous meditation, we established that there is no perfect Church. You can have a growing or maturing Church; but a perfect one is only reserved for the day and hour when Jesus comes for us. Just as it is illusory to search for a Church that has no challenges, so is it for a life that is totally hitch-free. It is a matter of when and not if; issues will always come up that are concerning. More especially if you are in a leadership position; you will be dealing with problems all the time. Apart from casting vision and showing direction, I think the other job of leaders is solving problems.
“Problems can be diversionary; so be wise and keep focus on the main thing.”
How we handle issues will determine whether problems are resolved or become aggravated. There are a number of lessons we can take to heart in the way the apostles addressed their first public problem. Without their proactive approach, the existence of that young Church could have been threatened. Firstly, they did not casually dismiss the problem. One would have thought that Peter was going to sharply rebuke the complainers, accuse them of being unserious and idle believers murmuring over ordinary food. Had that been the approach, the situation would have been rife for a Church split. Problems, whether small or big, call for attention. Problems don’t get solved by dismissing them. Secondly, the apostles adopted a participatory approach in dealing with the problem at hand. They called the brethren to address the matter together. Widespread consultations will often produce generally accepted solutions. Finally, in dealing with problems, it is important to establish priorities. The disciples established their priority and knew it would be unwelcoming to leave their core duties of prayer and the ministry of the word for food sharing. Problems can be diversionary; so be wise and keep focus on the main thing.