80/20 Rule

We had the amazing privilege of having one of our newest elders, Rodney Lau, speak and lead the church family in a time of seeking, hearing, and praying to the Lord. It was such a unique Sunday where there was nothing traditional about it! God works in so many ways and the presence of the Lord was in our midst.

As Rodney was leading, I was greatly encouraged. I looked out into the sanctuary and saw the people praying, weeping, and encouraging one another. I saw my staff participate in both giving and receiving. And it brought joy to my heart. There has always been a church “rule” where 80% of the work is done by 20% of the people. But at LifeSpring, we don’t live by that rule. It seems that 80% of the work is done by 80% of the people! And to me, this is a great sign of maturity.

In my household there are 4 children and 2 adults. 90% of the work in the household is done by 2 adults – or 33% of the people. This is absolutely necessary – my children do not know how to file taxes, mow the lawn, put away the dishes, pull weeds, change lightbulbs, scrub toilets, fold laundry, wash bedsheets, etc. They are still children and learning. Faith just learned to pee in the toilet!

10 years from now, when my children are: 21, 18, 15, and 13 I hope that the work balance will be distributed better. As my children mature, so do their responsibilities and their abilities. Part of growing up and maturing is doing your part for the family. Lifespring has been maturing, thus 80% of the work is being done by 80% of the people.

Kingdom Parenting can be hard. It requires great Patient Endurance, but when maturity takes place, there is no greater joy than to see our children walk in righteousness.

Thank you to the grandparent generation for pouring and teaching us. Thank you to everyone who gives your time, talent, and treasure to the family and to our children. By the grace of God we will mature and help our little ones do the same. Amen.