Honor Roll

The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, “Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,” and “The worker deserves his wages.” 

– 1 Timothy 5:17-18

Several years ago, a well-known beverage company launched a series of TV and radio commercials titled Great American Heroes. Each ad recognized those faceless individuals who labor diligently behind the scenes to support the American lifestyle. And what made the commercials memorable were their over-the-top scripts and theme music, which saluted the accomplishments of such working-class heroes as Mr. Backyard Bug-Zapper Inventor, Mr. Jelly Donut Filler, and Mr. Driving Range Ball Picker-Upper.

“Without you, Mr. Giant Foam Finger Maker, our teams would be in sixth or seventh place,” proclaimed the announcer.

Although these advertisements were absurd, their celebrations of the Average Joe were in many ways on the mark — at least when it comes to Jesus. For example, society tends to idolize sports stars, musicians, actors, and even politicians. And there are times when firefighters, police officers, or others are lauded (and deservedly so) for their bravery and heroics. But Christ tells us that Biblical reality is quite the opposite. From God’s perspective, “many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.”

The world defines success as doing what it takes to reach the top … and then stay there. And in many cases, it contends that the ends (success and fame) justify the means. But for Christ-followers, that road to success is nothing but a dead end. There’s nothing wrong with succeeding in business or making lots of money. The trouble comes when wealth, fame, and power become the focus of our lives. Rather than worshipping and living our lives for the Creator, we risk worshipping a flawed creation that eventually falls apart. A more Christ-centered approach is to descend the world’s ladder of greatness in favor of authentic humility and servant leadership. 

Maybe we’ll never get the limelight from a TV commercial like Mr. King of the Karaoke Mike or Mr. Souvenir Snow Globe Maker. But when we put our faith in Jesus and ask him to use us to help build his kingdom and do his will, we’ll one day receive the incredible honor of hearing these high words of praise:

“Well done, good and faithful servant. With you I am well pleased.”