MINISTERS MUSINGS

June 2008 Musing

The Apprentice

Over nine and a half million people watched the recent TV series ‘The Apprentice’, It was compulsive viewing. The fate of that group of 16 men and women with high aspirations to become Sir Alan Sugar’s apprentice with its power, prestige and high salary became more riveting than the happenings in Coronation Street or East Enders. This however was for real. Here were individuals quite prepared to expose themselves and their personalities to the probing eye of the TV camera, and the even more probing eyes of Sir Alan and his two henchmen. For most of us it gave a glimpse of the very different ‘cut and thrust’ world of big business management.

The weeks went by and numbers were reduced as those thought unsuitable were ’fired’. It then became a matter of intense speculation as to who would eventually win through. It was obvious that the ability to work as part of a team was a key factor, but over and above that of course was the ability to lead and manage successfully a team of diverse individuals with different skills and personalities. Not an easy task. It was an eye opening and entertaining series. The outcome was a little surprising in that the winner was someone who had given false information on his CV. He wasn’t my choice!

I could not help but contrast the happenings on ‘The Apprentice’ with St Paul’s teaching on the church. He likens it to the body of Christ, each part being different with a specific function yet co ordinated by one ‘Head’, (or project leader). There is of course a vital difference between top management as presented on TV where ambition, power and wealth are the prime motivators, and St Paul’s model where the key factors are love and unity in Christ.

We should take a good look at ourselves however and question whether we use our gifts to the full in His service. In our work and mission do we ride roughshod over others (as did some of the unsuccessful candidates ). Are we good team players in our local church or do we sit back and critically view the efforts of others. The business we are in is the biggest and best there is and it calls for our best endeavours and complete loyalty to fulfil the commission that our Lord has given us , to proclaim and live the Gospel. This is a ‘project’ where at the end of the day we can all be winners.