Behind the Scenes

For a type "A" personality like myself, it can be really difficult to sit back and work behind the scenes. On a daily basis, I'm the center of attention for a class full of teenagers. In my future career, youth pastoring, it will be the same. Being goofy and trying to keep a room full of teens excited and happy is quite a challenge, but also a lot of fun, especially when all eyes are on you! Even when I'm in a room full of adults or in a small group, I am one of those people who always tries to take charge and organize. It can be a great skill, but it can be my greatest downfall.

Today, I was at church (youth group) working the sound and media, behind the scenes. I play the music, put up the lyrics on screen, work the computer, etc. while the youth pastor interacts with the students and preaches. For someone like me, sometimes this job can be somewhat disappointing. I sort of feel forgotten about up in the sound booth, all by myself. I'm not the center of attention that I'm used to being.

Sometimes the greatest gift you can give is to do something behind the scenes. There are all kinds of people in the world--leaders, followers, support people--and we are all needed. We all have certain gifts and tendencies. Working outside of your giftings can be frustrating, but it also allows you to grow. More importantly, it helps other people and fills a void where someone or something is needed. Many times, we need to step up and do something we might not want to in order to serve our fellow man. And in doing so, we are also helping ourselves.

Even though working the sound booth is not my number 1 choice of youth group job, I'm learning valuable skills and lessons. I'm interacting with technology and using that gifting in a new role. I'm learning how to take a backseat and I'm able to observe things about teens and ministry that I would not be able to observe if I was busy interacting with the kids. These are important opportunities to learn. I have two choices: complain about the role I'm in or serve with all of my heart to fill a void and learn what I can. I choose the latter!

So, step out of your comfort zone today, whatever that is, and find a void to fill. I did tonight and it was a blessing.