In the 1812 edition of the Brothers Grimm tales, Rumpelstiltskin, a young girl is asked to spin gold from straw for days in the king’s tower. As crazy as this sounds, the concept of alchemy is derived from the ancients who believed they could transmute the base metals into gold. The constant strivings of such a science was derived from the desire for excellence in longevity of life and spiritual illumination. They were inspired by a vision of perfection in man. In fact, early Egyptian alchemists viewed the world of transmutation as metaphorical, “base elements” represented primitive behavior and “gold” that of nobility. The attempts for the right chemistry were endless.
In a way, the attempt for the right chemistry in relationships is similar. Many have tried to turn the alchemy of relationship building into a science. Countless books are written on the success of team strategy with formulas for what really works.
I have been in ministry a long time, and establishing the right chemistry in team building cannot be formulated in a five-step model, nor will looking to conjuring in an apothecary jar from Mendeleyev’s periodic table assist you in discovering answers in regards to this type of chemistry...Yet, there are lessons to be learned.
Some of the best lessons for understanding the alchemy of relationships can be found in the gospels. Jesus displayed an amazing “transmutation” at the wedding of Cana. I believe it is one of the best lessons on the chemistry of excellence in team dynamics.
“On the third day a wedding took place at Cana in Galilee. Jesus' mother was there, and Jesus and his disciples had also been invited to the wedding. When the wine was gone, Jesus' mother said to him, ‘They have no more wine.’ ‘Dear woman, why do you involve me?’ Jesus replied, ‘My time has not yet come.’
His mother said to the servants, ‘Do whatever he tells you.’
Nearby stood six stone water jars, the kind used by the Jews for ceremonial washing, each holding from twenty to thirty gallons. Jesus said to the servants, ‘Fill the jars with water’; so they filled them to the brim. Then he told them, ‘Now draw some out and take it to the master of the banquet.’ They did so, and the master of the banquet tasted the water that had been turned into wine. He did not realize where it had come from, though the servants who had drawn the water knew. Then he called the bridegroom aside and said, ‘Everyone brings out the choice wine first and then the cheaper wine after the guests have had too much to drink; but you have saved the best till now.’ This, the first of his miraculous signs, Jesus performed in Cana of Galilee. He thus revealed his glory, and his disciples put their faith in him.” John 2:1-11
Be inclusive
It is noteworthy that the author saw it as important to state that Jesus’ disciples were also invited to the wedding at Cana. As a leader, Jesus took His team with Him to share in His world and life. Too often, leaders have boiled team building down to a committee meeting or planning detail. Many leaders only see their team in relation to church function. Jesus knew that in order to develop the right relationship with His team required friendship. Sharing holidays, dinners and celebrating together enhances the genuine concept of team excellence that Jesus displayed.
Model what you have embraced
This story is the first account of Jesus performing a miracle. He demonstrated that amazing moment before His team of disciples. They saw first hand the gifts and calling on Jesus’ life. These times of modeling are so necessary if we want a team that finds us trustworthy. Our unity and growth depends on our team’s honor and respect. Modeling allows our team to see the genuineness of who we are so they can learn and share in the moment. In order for us to impart to our teams, we must let them experience first hand the life-changing power of God’s work in our own lives.
Have Fun for God Sake
In the process of Jesus having fun at a party, His disciples got to see the glory revealed. God moments should be fun. They bring connectedness that reveals the real person. Jesus let His hair down a bit and allowed His team to see his frustrations and the glory of what God was doing. They were attracted to his humanity and His divinity.
Be believable
The result of the team dynamics that Jesus established created a group of followers who found him believable. He had managed to take a group of ordinary guys and turn them into followers and then into dynamic leaders. The disciples knew Jesus was the real McCoy as He demonstrated what it means to have the Father’s heart towards those He was leading. They had become sons, and they had nowhere else they wanted to go because of it. As John Maxwell said, “If you are leading and no one is following, then you are only out for a walk.”
Establish the best for now
If you are frustrated with a team that seems to have the wrong chemistry, remember, Jesus saved “the best for now.” It is never too late to alter the situation. In turning water into wine, Jesus teaches us that God’s power can convert a watered-down situation into an amazing time of celebration. The right chemistry could be as simple as realizing the sugar was left out of the cake. Adding what is “kind, noble and of good report” starts with the leader, not the team. The right chemistry must be established and nurtured by the leader. What may have looked like a chemistry project gone bad in your team dynamics could be the beginnings of great alchemy as you adjust the elements. The new wine may be right in front of you as your team looks on in wonder at what God does through you first.
If you want to get to know the team better, check out the contributor's section.
Rebecca Holihan Sam Conley Bobby Hardwick Brian Reinicke
