Excerpt from Romans 14:13-15:2 

"Do not let what you regard as good get a bad name." (Good News Bible)

Reflection by William C. Green

We can be so good at what we do that there's no room for others to excel. We doubt they can. And, besides, "it's easier to do it myself." It's hard to "relinquish my proficiencies," as an outstanding preacher and social activist put it toward the end of his pastorate.

Leaving room for others is difficult when our ways work well. This was the problem Paul addressed in his letter to the Romans. He said don't block love by getting locked into your established roles and practices; don't let what you regard as good shut out others. There's more than one way to be excellent.

The spirit of Christ is inclusive. How these congregants voiced their belief and conducted themselves was fine, a good expression of freedom in Christ. But not if this got in the way of God's love for others.

Our intentions can be so good, our belief so solid, and our skill so proficient, that it's easy to hurt others without knowing it and stand in the way of their growth. Excellence itself gets a bad name when it discourages the excellence of others. And love itself is cheap when it's on my terms alone.

Knowing how to leave room for others and when to relinquish our ways for them to shine is a key to rewarding relationships — and a good expression of the spirit of Christ himself.

Prayer

God, may I encourage the excellence of others when their ways are not mine. Amen.

About the Author William C. Green, a United Church of Christ minister, is the Director of Long Looking, a consultancy service specializing in fundraising and education for congregations. He is the author of 52 Ways to Ignite Your Congregation: Generous Giving.

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