It Takes Time to Mature

Scripture: Then after fourteen years I went up again to Jerusalem with Barnabas, taking Titus along with me. Galatians 2:1

Observation: Paul, in recounting the history of his faith, first laid out (in chapter 1) that God called him, then he waited three years, then met with Peter, then went off to begin a local ministry, where we see he learned and then lead for ... 14 years. It was only after this time he re-engaged with the church leaders in Jerusalem, received his commission to become an apostle to the Greek world, and was sent out on his famous mission trips.

In total, from the time of his conversion to the time that he was sent out, was therefore 17 years. Laurie and I were JUST talking about this Wednesday - that it takes a long time from the time someone first believes in Jesus, until they behave like someone who believes in Jesus, and that long time is normal ... it is expected, and in fact biblical. We even used the example of Paul taking 15-20 years from conversion to his first mission trip.

Application: We were having this discussion as we were reminding ourselves to be patient with many people in our church. Our church has done a GREAT job in reach the unchurched and those with very little faith. Therefore, behaviors ... struggle. We need to remember that this is normal and expected. Someone doesn't get baptized, and suddenly change their way of life. In fact, they don't immediately know they even should change! That realization alone may take years.
 
Paul was converted. Then he showed up for three years. Then he learned and grew for 14 years. Then he presented himself to others for leadership, still subservient not just to James, Peter, and John, but also still to Barnabas. And only then did he lead. I need to not place a burden of expectation on anyone that is greater than what would be expected of Paul.

What does that patience look like for me? First, it involves remembering my own journey. When I returned to faith, I effectively didn't change anything. Some of my realization - such as swearing - occurred only after I was married with kids 3-5 years later. Other behaviors have diminished slowly over time. Meanwhile, my service within the church was non-existent for years ... it was about eight years before I joined a ministry team of any kind. It was about ten years before I made my first attempt to tithe (and rationalized ways to fall short of that goal).

I need to add a lot of grace to how I look at my brothers and sisters at church. Many just show up and do nothing else. I need to remember that is normal. It was me for a long time. Eventually, IF I show them grace and love, they'll help. Then they will serve. Then they will give. Then they will tithe. Then they will lead. Then ... I will follow.

Prayer: Lord, this isn't about others, it is about my grace toward others. Intellectually I know better. However, Laurie and I grow tired from time to time. We wish others in the church would serve, or at the very least stop needing leadership. However, you remind us that this is actually a sign of your spirit working in our church - the fact we have people who are just showing up is a sign that they are new to faith and thus we are doing your work. Please give us patience, grace, and strength daily. Amen.