Can Do Spirit

I often encourage people in the church to step outside their comfort zones—to embrace new ideas, delve into scripture in fresh ways, take on roles in committees, or help bring about change within our congregation. Sometimes, this is met with enthusiasm and excitement to try something different. But more often, I hear responses like, “I can’t do that,” “I don’t know how,” “Are you kidding?” or “We’ve never done it that way.” Occasionally, people even react with frustration or anger.

Bishop William B. Oden, former Bishop of North Texas, once wrote an article that speaks to the challenge of stepping out in faith and doing what God calls us to do. I’d like to share part of his reflection with you:

“Leonard Sweet, who was then the Dean of Drew Theological Seminary, is one of my favorite preachers. I once heard him give a sermon that has stayed with me over the years. I even asked for a copy. Here is a part of that sermon:

One of our students received an appointment from a Bishop, but felt it didn’t quite align with her skills. I overheard her discussing this with another student, who replied, ‘You know, the world is a better place because Michelangelo didn’t say, “I don’t do ceilings.”’

This comment struck me profoundly. They were right. If we are to be faithful to God’s call, we need to adopt this same spirit. I began to reflect on the people in scripture and throughout church history:

• The world is a better place because Moses didn’t say, ‘I don’t do Pharaohs or mass migrations.’

• The world is a better place because Noah didn’t say, ‘I don’t do arks and animals.’

• The world is a better place because Rahab didn’t say, ‘I don’t do enemy spies.’

• The world is a better place because David didn’t say, ‘I don’t do giants.’

• The world is a better place because Peter didn’t say, ‘I don’t do Gentiles.’

• The world is a better place because Mary didn’t say, ‘I don’t do virgin births.’

• The world is a better place because Jesus didn’t say, ‘I don’t do crosses.’

The world is a better place only if you and I don’t say, ‘I don’t do…’

As we journey through the rest of this year with a CAN DO spirit, may we embrace the calling of Christ with courage and commitment.

Peace, Pastor Tracy