From The Editor: Play a Supporting Role in Your Life’s Story

I was recently joking with my husband that I’ve never felt like the main character of my life. I’ve always felt more like a behind- the-scenes person, working to ensure things happen the way they’re supposed to for those around me. When I was younger, I toyed with the idea of becoming an actress, bringing leading roles to life and living in the spotlight. But the thought of actually stepping into that spotlight made me increasingly uncomfortable as I grew older and learned more about myself. I play the supporting role, and I think that’s who I was made to be.

Growing up as the middle of five kids, I naturally learned to keep the peace. A little nudge of comfort here, a small chore completed there, and the people around me suddenly became better able to be themselves, living more comfortable and authentic lives. I fully believe this was God teaching me important lessons about ministry even before I understood what that meant.

Now let’s talk about the Bible for a minute — God’s story. Jesus is obviously the main character, and we want to be like Jesus, don’t we? Jesus walked the streets doing miracles, preaching, flipping tables, and altogether causing a ruckus in society — main character energy for sure. Is this what we’re called to emulate? Yes, sometimes. But what else does Jesus do?

In John 2, Mary pushes Jesus into the spotlight when post-wedding festivities run out of wine. He asks her “’Woman, why do you involve me?’” (v 4) before quietly turning water into more wine, not bringing any more attention to himself than necessary. In Mark 1, Jesus heals a leper then urges him not to tell anyone, saying he should only show the priests that he was now clean. In Mark 8, Jesus heals a blind man, then instructs him not to tell anyone in town; in fact, don’t even go into town so the topic is avoided entirely.

While he didn’t shy away from the spotlight, there are many times Jesus attempted to take a step back, wanting God’s actions to be the true experience, not his own naturally charismatic leadership.

Jesus’ disciples were often confused by this behavior. We see them vying for power and position in Luke 9, Mark 10, and Matthew 18 (to name a few). They wouldn’t truly understand what Jesus was asking of them, who he wanted them to be, until his death and resurrection. That’s when they finally realized what he meant all along when he said “’Anyone who wants to be first must be the very last, and the servant of all.’” (Mark 9:35).

Our main job as disciples and followers of Christ is not to be miracle-working, Bible-touting, world-shattering preachers. Although that may be part of our journey, our bigger calling is to point people’s attention to God, ensuring He remains the main character of all of history.

So, the next time you feel like you’re only playing a small role in this life you’re living, try embracing that role. Don’t attempt to upstage the main character. Instead, make sure everything you do points others to God.