7 November 2022

I left you behind in Crete for this reason, that you should put in order what remained to be done, and should appoint elders in every town, as I directed you: someone who is blameless, married only once, whose children are believers, not accused of debauchery and not rebellious.

From Titus 1:1-9, NRSV

In his letter to Titus. Paul gives instructions on how to organise the new Christian communities in Crete including the appointment of elders to guide them. This would have been no small task. especially as the people of Crete had something of a reputation for their wildness. Titus would have had his work cut out in finding people worthy and capable of giving the lead their communities needed. Paul helps Titus in his task by carefully listing the qualities required of the elders. Paul’s letter would likely have been read to these communities so that any prospective leaders would know that it would not be by self-promotion that they would be chosen but that they would need to show their worthiness through living righteous lives.

• • How easy do you suppose it was for Titus to find such leaders? 
  • How are leaders in our own communities identified and encouraged?

Pray for all charged with responsibility for others in our communities and for those discerning whether they have something to offer in this regard.