You sometimes hear it said that someone is “a pillar of the church,” implying that this one’s devotion and service are so substantial that he or she is an essential support for their church. Such a position can seem to be a great burden at times and make for a sense of weariness or imposition.
But consider this: A pillar holding up a building is also sheltered by the building. A lone pillar would be exposed to the elements and so unprotected. Its strength and beauty could be eroded.
So a church protects its pillars as much as they support the church. There is shelter and safety within it. Each pillar of the church is therefore upheld, as well as upholding the structure.
