Church Leadership,  Church Life

What Is an EDA?

I’ve noticed what (at least for me) is a relatively new trend at politics events. To be honest, the trend may not be new, but a label may be. Now that both political parties have had their conventions, it may be safe to post this without seeming to take sides (I hope).

At conventions, rallies, etc., there are always the usual types of speakers. Well known political people and other “important people” are part of the lineup. Most of them need no introduction.

There are others, though, who do need some sort of introduction. Their names are not well-known and are probably forgotten not long after their speeches are complete. As the reporters and pundits on television talk about them, they are often just called EDA’s.

I’m guessing that you fit into this group. I know that I do. 

The group consists of people from just about every occupation and lifestyle imaginable. EDA’s come in all shapes and sizes, multiple ethnic and racial groups, various areas in our nation, and have different accents. I could go on, but suffice it to say that they (we) have very little in common except for the fact that… 

EDA is “shorthand” for…

EVERYDAY AMERICANS

I’m thinking (at least I’m hoping) that some people are waking up to the fact that “ordinary people” are extraordinarily important and can be extraordinarily influential. As I type these words, I’m thinking of a couple of applications.

First, people in any leadership position do not need to minimize the importance of those who may be lower on the organizational chart. They may be (and probably are) the very ones who are keeping things going. After all, our Lord emphasized and exemplified that real greatness is found in service, not in position or titles.

Second, there is no such thing as an unimportant person. We all have worth; we all bear the image of our Creator; and Jesus died for all of us. In addition to that, once we become a member of the body of Christ, each one of us is needed in order for that body to function properly.

So, I’m content to let politicians (and others) wear their titles, wield their power, make “big” decisions, be in the news, accept accolades, etc. I’m satisfied with being “just” an EDA. 

I have no idea who originated this idea, but the observation has been made that God must love ordinary people, because He made so many of us.


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AUTHOR: Jim Faughn

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