The Pain of a Prophet *Just a few disclaimers before I go any further. This is a bit lengthy; maybe more of a sermon, and less of a status update. Sorry about that. It’s also more of a rambling of thoughts, not quite a finished work, so if it doesn’t make much sense, sorry. However, as I was doing a little bit of reading, I did come across some interesting theology on the idea of the Seven Redemptive Gifts from God, in the book of Romans, that overlapped very nicely with this topic, and could very well make for a fun sermon series in the future. Just an FYI. Ok then. Just to give you a little background, for anyone who knows anything about CRE programs, knows that in most cases, a psychological evaluation is typically required for candidates. That has always just tickled me silly. I understand the importance of this, but when you say it, it’s funny. Someone says they’ve been called by God, so the first thing we do is run them through a battery of psychological examinations. Can’t have crazy people talking to God you know. But I digress. Anyone familiar with the Midwest group, has probably heard of the Ministry Role Identification Profile. That’s where I came across the overlap with the Seven Redemptive Gifts from God. I identified most with the Prophet, or “prophetic gift”. Now, as one author was very quick to point out, this is only a personality type, and has absolutely nothing to do with being an actual prophet. I’m ok with that. However, this personality type can be a painful one, and I think, to some extent, can be experienced by all Christians, just by its very nature. Here’s a brief overview of this type: Prophet: As a prophet you pay special attention to and speak out against injustices. You act out of a care for people in groups, particularly oppressed groups. You relate the teachings of the Gospel to the need for changing the order of society, and you work to change minds and institutions in order to rectify social wrongs. You value justice, conscience, challenge to the status quo, and being seen by others as a courageous advocate for the oppressed. That’s a lot. I think for anyone who fits this personality type like I do, will instantly relate. And for us, quite often, I think we feel like it’s us against the world. I often see things as black and white, and feel obligated to take a stand, especially against injustice, and the oppressed. And the worst part is, it’s usually not about huge social issues, although it can be. It’s usually in everyday life. Those of you that can relate, probably experience the most difficulty in the work place. There’s always that one person who does less work than anyone else, but always gets the promotions. There’s that one boss that gives those promotions. And then there’s you, who sees these wrongs, who sees your co-workers that do the real work, and get overlooked time after time, because they’re not in the right crowd, or they haven’t progressed through deceitful means. This is where it stinks to be a prophet. By your very personality, you can’t sit idly by and watch this happen. You have to take a stand and go against the status quo, at any cost to yourself, and your personal comfort. And it’s a painful place to be. But someone has to do it. As abrupt as this ending seems to be, I guess I wasn’t trying for a feel-good story. The plain truth is that there has to be some good people out there that aren’t afraid to take a stand to the evils in this world. It’s usually a thankless job, and a painful one as well. The whole world usually seems against you, but never give up. Keep fighting the good fight. If nothing else, just know you’re not alone. If you’ve read this post, and can relate, I hope you can it least take some comfort in it. Just keep running your race with your torch held high and burning bright, and victory will be yours in the end. *One last disclaimer. To some extent, this rambling post is probably more just for my own therapeutic needs than anything else. The one thing I really like about Facebook, is that I often see it used as an open diary, for people to express their experiences, both good and bad. And if they’ve surrounded themselves with good people, and good friends, it also provides them with positive feedback, and affirmation in themselves, and I see that as a good thing. So, if you didn’t get anything out of this, that’s ok, but if you did, and you can relate, and have experienced this yourself; good, like I said, just know you’re not standing alone against the world; I’m right there with you.
Posted on: Wed, 21 Jan 2015 22:44:07 +0000
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