Polarities and the Congregation

Too many times when there is a problem we try to solve it without understanding. Many conflicts in a congregation stem from trying to solve issues with finality. Take these two realities and you have a pretty messed up congregation.

There are traditionally two types of problems: Problems that need to be solved or brought to completion and problems that need to be managed. The first type we all are familiar: The cat needs to be fed, put food in bowl, cat is fed. The second type is fairly alien to most. This kind of problem has no solution. In fact the second type of problem is only dealt with by acknowledging that there are two right answers and they are independent and mutually dependent on each other.

Example: Does the law protect the individual or the community? The answer is that the law does both. This is called a polarity - two opposing but equal answers. To manage this polarity the law must balance concerns of the individual with concerns for the community. When one polarity is favored over the other we have serious problems. Another pastor's take.

In the church we have many such polarities: Law and Gospel, Sinner and Saint, Caffeinated or Decaffeinated. These are issues that need to be managed not solved. One of the most difficult polarities a congregation deals with is hospitality.

Hospitality is the main issues Jesus teaches us about throughout the four gospels. Who is my neighbor? In a congregation we often find that we have a collapsed polarity: Strangers and Members. Often the hospitality polarity is collapsed toward the members. We are quick to support, pray for, celebrate with, and lift up our fellow members in the congregation. But the other polarity needs to be attended to just as vigorously if a congregation is to fulfill its mission and  ministry.

Are there other polarities in a congregation that needs to be managed so that she can be healthy?