When One Size DOESN’T Fit All
by Jane Jebsen, Pinnacle West Associate
You’ve seen them before – a shirt, robe, coat, whatever — that says, “one size fits all.” As a larger person in size, I know the falseness of this statement. Sometimes I look at things and go that won’t even fit “most!” In an effort to appeal to all sizes, the manufacturers automatically leave some out. So, the truth is one size doesn’t fit all.
Friends, the same is true for our churches. One congregation cannot be a fit for all, and we really do our mission and purpose a disservice when we buy that lie. A church with a very traditional history that is loved is not going to automatically engage the same person as the congregation who is led by a band and loves out-of-the-box thinking and doing. The faith community whose focus is serving the poor and hungry from their building is not necessarily going to attract the same folks as a church with a magnificent music program.
And you know what? That’s OK!!! Let me say it again – THAT’S OK!!
As leaders in worshiping communities, one of our jobs is to help the community we serve discover its gifts and passions — and lean into them whole heartedly. It’s not always easy and takes a whole heap of discernment, but when we live into who God has shaped us to be — not just individually but as communities of faith, the energy, the excitement, the making a difference in our world is amazing!
It takes a lot of heart, grit and determination. There will be those who want to constantly pull you back into comfort, there will be those who choose to not get on board with the vision and mission, there will be the complainers and roadblocks… but… there will also be those who go, “Yes! I love this,” and commit to making this happen. There are those who are wildly creative and given the space to unleash that creativity, will jump on board. There are those who will sigh with relief, finding a community where they know they fit.
So… let go of the idea you must be everything for every person. Look at the gifts your faith community has, look at what you already do really well and what there is passion around in your people. Identify those things and then prayerfully ask God to show you what God’s plans are for your community. Include your leadership in this discernment as well as people with influence in your community. Sometimes, it’s easier if you have someone from outside your community come in and lead the discussion — for they can see things you don’t, and people will listen to them differently.
Be abundantly clear there is space for everyone to be part of this new vision — and if people opt out because they don’t like it or refuse to hear how they can be part, know that’s Okay, too. If someone leaves your church and goes to another church because it “fits them” better — that is not a loss for the Kingdom. It’s just sheep changing pastures.
The true reality is one size does not fit all. Rather God has created communities of faith uniquely. None are exactly the same as another. And that’s a very good thing! So, embrace who you are and where God is leading; claim your place in the Kingdom work at hand. For no one can do the work you are called to do in the same way your church can do it! Be brave, be bold in following Jesus the way he created your community to follow!
For more information about engaging in this kind of visioning, contact Pinnacle West.
