Maturity is about giving up for the sake of others. Babies cry and scream until we figure out what it is they need and statisfy that need. That need could be hunger, fear, a diaper change, to be burped or just simply to be held. As parents, we give up our sleep, freedom, time, Grey's, 24, whatever to care for our child in need. That sacrifice is made in changing ways as our child grows to adulthood and beyond. We give whether or not they appreciate us or understand us or the decisions we make in their behalf.
As I reflect on The Church today, I think we would do well to heed the words of Paul here in Rom. 15:1-4. The "Me First" society we live in is very much a part of the American Church. Our programming has catered to the "Me First" mentality. Our organizational and leadership structures have fallen into the "Me First" trap. Our attitudes as church members (or consumers) have been captured by the "Me First" syndrome.
Okay, I expect the world to behave that way and I have grown up in the "Me" Generation. But aren't we, The Church, Followers or Ambassadors of Christ supposed to act and think differently than the world? Aren't we supposed to model Jesus and grow to be like Him? As a Follower of Christ, a Christian, haven't I signed on for humble servanthood? Didn't I give up my rights when I gave my life to Christ? If that's all true, why is there such a selfish cry for "my way" in churches? Music, worship styles, dress codes, power struggles, what's that all about?
Paul says we who are strong/mature ought to bear with the failings of the weak. Each of us should seek to build up his/her neighbors, personally and spiritually. We should model what we've learned about spiritual maturity to others. God, I don't want to be known for my "Me First" temper tantrums. I want to grow to be more like you, to demonstrate spiritual maturity not piety. God give me the wisdom and strength to build up the weak and my neighbors.
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