The Collaborator is the role in which we bring people together to get thing done. It is when we understand the power of team and that we can’t do it alone. The Collaborator will have two main challenges: 1) fighting the tempation to do it alone and 2) encouraging people to die to self for the sake of the team. In Ecclesiastes 4, there was a man who insisted on working alone. As a result, he made money but never had time to enjoy life due to the fact that he worked all time. In verse 9, Solomon states, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor.” Can you imagine the kind of impact the church would have if we collaborated? Yet, here stands the challenge. Everyone wants to do it alone and no one wants to die to self for the sake of a purpose greater than themselves. Anyway, the Collaborator helps keep a team together. Challenges threaten even the very best of teams. One disagreement can cause discouragement, trife, and tension amongst team members. Even in a local church setting, the leadership must operate as collaborators encouraging various ministry teams to work together as a unit. Territorialism can also hinder team effectiveness. You know what I’m talking about. These are “OUR volunteers.” “OUR space.” “WE were here first.” “It’s OUR turn.” “Why do they get more attention than US?” The Collaborate must refocus the team on the one main mission/vision/purpose/objective of the ministry…that’s if you have one.
As I was writing this post, I was reminded of a music video I saw on Reading Rainbow when I was a kid. I decided to search for it on YouTube. Lo and behold, here it is! Just a little reminder for when we act like little kids who refuse to work with others. Check it out! Cheesy, but true… Outdated, but timeless…
