Character Welcome

There is a popular TV network slogan that simply states "Characters Welcome". The implication is that the world is full of lots of different types of characters and they want to celebrate the differences through their programming. Not a bad goal. However, I can't help but think every time I hear those two words that it would have been better to say, "Character Welcome".

In today's world of self-promotion and a "claw your way to the top" mentality, it is often character that is missing in so many situations and relationships. It has been said, that character is who you are when no one is looking. I believe that to be a true statement. Who we are in a crowd of onlookers may be very different than who we are when we believe no one is watching us.

In the MCS Student Leadership Institute, we expose our students to numerous methods, styles, and theories about leadership. We focus on Christ-like humility and servanthood. We teach the students about the importance of Godly character. The Apostle Paul tells us in I Corinthians 13:13 that love is the most important character quality. In today's culture, character often times falls to the wayside as people strive to get ahead and make a name for themselves and their careers. At MCS we want our families and staff to strive for Christian character in all aspects of their lives, and to expect it from each other.

We know that King David was a man after God's heart. That does not mean that David never failed, or made mistakes. In fact, if we examine his life, we find David had many flaws. He was human and sinful. But we also discover in David a strong sense of responsibility, humility, and brokeness when he failed.

I hope for each of us at MCS that it can be said of us, as it was said of David, that "[we lead] with integrity of heart; and with skillful hands..." Psalm 78: 72