Set an Example: Administration, continued

“Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.” (1 Peter 5:2,3)

Communication is important. Understatement! When you consider that Jesus is the Word of God, you might begin to realize that communication is crucial. And because of its importance, the powers of darkness are set to oppose it. It is not by chance that communicating clearly is one of the most difficult things the church does.

[That said, I confess this as an area in my life needing prayer and growth. For a couple of years I created a weekly newsletter for the choir, running off copies and placing them in the numbered folder slots before each rehearsal. I would include some devotional thoughts, things or people to pray about,some humor, and reminders of upcoming singing or event dates, plus the songs we’d be singing on those dates. A few members don’t make use of e-mail, so it seemed a good idea. It worked well except for the reams of paper used. I will probably go back to it this fall, e-mailing the majority, and running copies for the few who wouldn’t get it otherwise.]

This is the first choir I’ve directed that regularly uses robes. My first choir had them, but as the ladies got to an age at which being overly warm became an issue, and the choir was moved to the balcony where heat collected, the robes were left in storage. This choir has light weight robes with reversible stoles of four colors to match the vestments in the sanctuary. The robes are downstairs, and until members go up, they are guessing what stole color to use. So finally I requested a listing of Sundays/colors, and it’s taped on the door of the robe closet. There is also a list of members there with their robe numbers, and a 3x5 card over each hanger with the number on it. They can see at a glance which robe is theirs.

Then there are notices for the Sunday bulletins, and for the monthly church newsletter. Also the song title for each bulletin. The newsletter escapes me. I rarely think to include anything till it’s too late. Fortunately, we rarely need anything in it. In August, though, I want to do a membership drive, so it’s a matter of getting it on my personal calendar and remembering to look at it! The bulletins are blessedly taken care of by our pastor, who is a fine bass in the choir. It helps, too, to have one or more administratively gifted choir members who will keep me straight if (I mean WHEN) I forget something. Bless them!

I mustn’t leave out financial responsibilities. I directed for many years without pay, and was content to do so. This church pays me, and it’s at a time in our lives when we are most grateful (college-going, driving, eating, insurance-needing sons). I believe absolutely in the first 10% of every check being laid aside for the Lord’s use. And what joy when someone has a need, the Lord nudges my heart to respond, and there’s actually money there to do so! I would consider it robbing God not to tithe. I make it the first thing I do, so I don’t forget. Now, this is something the Lord has spoken very clearly to me about. What you do is between you and Him. Only do search the Scriptures on it, and do ask Him. He’ll make it plain what He wants of you. It may be different from what He’s shown me.

So what am I missing? And what can be done more efficiently? I’m sure you have a ton of ideas! Feel free to share them in the comments here. I’d surely love to hear from you.

In this little series on setting an example, I’ve covered Morale and Administration. Next will be Musicality and Spirituality.