Embracing the Beauty of Ordinary
A Church Planter's Paradox
Introduction
One of the major temptations of those in ministry, particularly church planting ministry is the desire to leave a lasting legacy. In many ways this is unavoidable, church planters will be historically remembered as the spark that god uses to bring about a new work, a new church. This aspiration is understandable; who doesn’t dream of being remembered for their monumental contributions? Yet, within this longing lies a paradox. The most profound beauty in ministry is often found not in the extraordinary but in the ordinary. It is in the quiet, uncelebrated rhythms of daily faithfulness that the transformative power of the Gospel is most profoundly displayed.
For church planters, this truth can be both liberating and challenging. The pursuit of legacy risks overshadowing the quieter, subtler ways God works through our lives. It can also lead to, and it has in many difficult stories, a church being so tied to a particular leader that it becomes harmful to both. This article explores the paradox of ordinary ministry, inviting church planters to embrace the beauty of the everyday as a profound and enduring expression of God’s work. I want to give a few thoughts to those of us in church planting ministry, or considering it.
The Ordinary as Extraordinary
At first glance, the ordinary may seem at odds with the visionary aspirations of church planters. After all, planting a church often requires bold dreams and an audacious spirit. Yet, when we look closely, we see that the ordinary is a canvas upon which God paints His most extraordinary masterpieces.
Consider the moments of connection over a shared meal, the incremental growth of faith in a struggling believer, or the subtle but profound shaping of a community over time. These unassuming moments hold extraordinary significance in God’s kingdom. In the ordinary, God’s grace meets human need, and lives are quietly transformed.
Authentic Relatability
One of the greatest gifts of embracing ordinariness is the authenticity it fosters. Church planters who live with vulnerability, acknowledge their struggles, and embrace their humanity create space for genuine relationships.
People resonate with leaders who are relatable—who don’t pretend to have all the answers but instead journey alongside them in faith. This kind of authenticity not only builds trust but also points people to the sufficiency of Christ rather than the strength of the leader.
Rootedness in Humility
The beauty of ordinariness is inseparable from humility. It takes humility to resist the allure of grandeur and instead embrace the small, quiet work of shepherding people in their everyday lives.
Humility is a hallmark of Christ’s ministry. Jesus didn’t seek fame or earthly accolades; He washed feet, spoke with outcasts, and chose the path of the cross. For church planters, this model of servant-hearted leadership is both a calling and a comfort. It reminds us that God often works most powerfully through the humble and unassuming.
Embracing the Unseen Impact
The obsession with legacy can blind us to the profound impact of ordinary moments. A kind word spoken at the right time, a steady presence during a difficult season, or the shared struggles of ministry may never be written about in books or celebrated on platforms. Yet, these moments often leave the deepest impressions.
As church planters, we must trust that God sees and values the unseen. The Apostle Paul reminds us in 1 Corinthians 15:58 to “stand firm” and know that our labor in the Lord is never in vain. Even the most mundane acts of faithfulness ripple into eternity.
Shaping a Community
Church planting is inherently communal work. The goal is not to build personal legacies but to shape communities that embody Christ’s love and truth. Ordinary church plants—those that focus on gradual growth rather than instant impact—become places where love, compassion, and shared commitment flourish.
These communities may not garner headlines, but their quiet faithfulness reflects God’s heart. They demonstrate that true success in ministry isn’t measured by numbers or notoriety but by lives transformed by the Gospel.
A Legacy of Changed Lives
While many church planters dream of building something monumental, the most enduring legacy often lies in changed lives. A congregation that learns to love one another, a family that comes to faith, or a young leader mentored into maturity—these are the markers of a lasting impact.
This kind of legacy may not always be visible or celebrated, but it is profound. As Paul wrote in 2 Timothy 2:2, the Gospel is carried forward through faithful people investing in others who will, in turn, invest in others.
Longevity in Ministry
Embracing the beauty of ordinariness also sustains church planters for the long haul. The relentless pursuit of an extraordinary legacy can lead to burnout, as expectations outpace reality. But a ministry grounded in ordinary faithfulness offers stability and endurance.
By focusing on the small and steady, church planters avoid the trap of constantly chasing the next big thing. Instead, they find joy in the ongoing work of shepherding, discipling, and serving their communities.
Cultivating a Graceful Presence
In ordinary ministry, grace abounds. Church planters who embrace their imperfections and learn from failures model a powerful truth: God’s strength is made perfect in weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).
This graceful presence creates a culture of openness and growth within the community. It allows others to see that ministry isn’t about perfection but about faithfully walking with God and others, even when the path is difficult.
Legacy in Seeds Planted
The beauty of being ordinary lies in the seeds planted rather than the monuments erected. Church planters may never see the full fruit of their labor, but they can trust that God will bring growth in His time. Many of us desire impact, yet the beauty of ministry is that influence is actually much greater and will outlive us.
These seeds—whether they are small acts of kindness, sermons preached, or relationships nurtured—carry the potential for eternal impact. As Jesus taught in the parable of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31–32), the smallest of seeds can grow into something mighty in God’s kingdom. The proverb is correct as it states that we are planting trees of which someone else will eat the fruit.
A Symphony of Ordinary Stories
Every church planter contributes a unique note to the symphony of God’s redemptive work. Together, these ordinary stories weave a tapestry of grace, a melody of lives transformed by the Gospel.
This symphony is beautiful not because of any single extraordinary note but because of the harmony created by countless ordinary acts of faithfulness.
Conclusion
In the paradox of desiring legacy but finding beauty in ordinariness, church planters uncover a profound truth: the everyday moments, unassuming gestures, and quiet faithfulness are the building blocks of lasting impact.
The beauty of being ordinary is not a concession to mediocrity but an invitation to embrace the transformative power of the seemingly mundane. When church planters let go of the pressure to achieve greatness and instead focus on walking humbly with God, they leave a legacy far greater than monuments or accolades.
This legacy is written not in stone but in the hearts of people - people whose lives have been forever changed by the beauty of ordinary, faithful ministry.