Known for something?
Monday, June 11th, 2012
Recently, I was at my Annual Conference, it is a giant gathering of United Methodist pastors where we report on issues and vote on items relating to us. If you are not Methodist, just think of a conference for every pastor and an equal number of laity that decide all sorts of things. It is usually a good time to refresh, relax, and be surrounded by other pastors who understand what I am going through. This year was no exception. I had a great time.
However, I noticed something this year, it may have always been there but this year I noticed it more. What I noticed is that certain people are “known” for certain things. Some are complainers, some are greeters, some are political. Others are even known for certain issues “the gun guy” or “the music guy.” Not everyone is known for good things. And when these people get up to speak everyone groans knowing that no matter what the topic is that person is going to switch it to their “pet” issue.
All of this made me think of what I am known for and what I want to be known for. I am not sure what people think of me, and at times I don’t really care. But I think if I had to be known for any one issue I would want to be known as “the disciple-making guy” that every time I speak everyone will know that I am going to talk about making disciples of Jesus. I want to be known as that guy who will do whatever it takes to bring people closer to Jesus. I am not sure any issue is as important or as God-honoring as making sure people hear and know about Jesus.
What are you known for? Do you like what you are known for? What would it take to change what you are known for?
