I once heard years ago about a conductor who was asked what the hardest instrument was to play in the orchestra. Expecting him to list off various instruments which took years, and in some cases a lifetime to master, the interviewer was quite shocked when the conductor said, “Second fiddle.” Why would he say that? “Because everyone wants to be first.”
That is true in an orchestra. In a job. In a sports team. In a church. And yes, in life. No one wants to play “second fiddle.” Oops…incorrect statement. Very few want to play second fiddle.
Since my profession is in the church world, that is the one I know best. Many think, “I’m not the pastor or youth pastor, or teacher, or ‘I can’t play a guitar or keyboard or drums or sing, so I must not be much good.” Nothing can be farther from the truth! Every person plays a part in the ministry of the church. Every person plays an important role in the church’s mission. While it may seem the up-front role is more important, each week there are people behind the scenes doing what they do best. Live stream. Sound. Recording. Welcoming visitors. Working in the nursery. The list is endless.
There are no second fiddles. In I Cor. 12 the Apostle Paul wrote about this. “The eye cannot say to the hand I don’t need you. The ear can’t say to the eye I don’t need you.” At the same time we can’t all be an eye or a brain or a hand. The body works best when they are working together.
The church. A business. A team. A family. An organization. They all work best when working together.
Well said, Bill! I played alto, clarinet in band and loved it! While we rarely played solo or even melody, we provided the harmony.
I love that word “Harmony” Pam. That is what makes it all go! There is no sweeter music than that.
That is so true Bill, no one can shine without a supporting cast. We all need each other. We are one body in Christ, and it takes all of us to do our part to advance God’s Kingdom.
That is true Gail. I’m glad you know that truth. You are one of those ‘behind the scenes” people whom I know I can count on to pray.
Being one of those that prefer the less “up front” role… I am thankful that we all have a place in God’s plan to be a part of the Body.
I know you are one of those “silent types” Ryan. I’m grateful for your quiet support. And yes, we all have a place.
It’s obvious that each of us brings a unique gift and ability to the table, Bill. It’s such a blessings when we recognize our gifts for what they are and use them humbly for the glory of God.
Blessings!
I think you hit on it Martha. We each recognize our gifts for what they are and use them humbly. When we do that the church functions as it should.