For those who contribute nothing but their own self-interest...

Church is a place full of sinners. That statement should be a no-brainer to anyone with a modicum understanding of the Christian faith. "There is no one righteous - no not one," says St. Paul. But the church is also full of saints - those set apart by the work of Jesus Christ through faith on account of Jesus' atoning death and victorious resurrection. Thus, Lutherans believe in Simil Justus et Peccator - simultaneously justified and sinful.

I mention this because I am slowly realizing just how much wasted time of pastoral ministry is spent dealing with long-time Christians who are completely self-absorbed. The church for this type of person is all about - yep you guessed it - them. While I lament this fact, it is simply a matter of understanding my first point; the church is full of sinners.

I was on a business blog earlier today where the writer was dealing with Seneca's philosophy and I came across this quote: "Too often, we spend time focusing on the trivial with people who contribute nothing but their own self-interest." Fantastic sentence! And right to the point.

So I have resolved to call people on the carpet when they attempt to waste my time by contributing nothing but their self-interest by asking, "And what does this have to do with the mission of Jesus?"