Leadership

I’m embarking on an experiment with a good friend, Justin. I’ll introduce him at the end of this post, but for now lets start by exploring what comes to mind when you hear the word "Leadership."

Leadership. 

A few years back I was asked to consider a position as a professor. I took the bait and had the conversation because it interested me, not because I felt a particular desire to depart where I was, instead curiosity drove the inquiry. I discovered the position offered was to chair the Practical Theology Department at a Christian University. I was taken back and asked an obvious question, “Surely, I am not the most qualified individual on your list, am I?” 

The reply astounded me. “Well, Doug, out of all those interested, you are the only one who has actually worked in a field where practical theology is applied. In other words, no one else has had a ministry job, they’ve gone straight from student to teacher.”  

Now isn’t that interesting? Two things captured my attention. One, pundits with little to no practical application of the very “tools of the trade” are preparing the next generation of leaders for ministry. Scary. 

Two, didn’t Jesus actually challenge this naive notion (practical theology and leadership are only for the professionals) when he encountered a well-meaning mother who wanted status and recognition for her sons? He said (Matt. 20:25-26), “You know that the rulers (leaders) in this world lord it over their people, and officials flaunt their authority over those under them. But among you it will be different.” “As a Christian who has authority and leadership, how should I be different?” you may be asking.

This all brings us to a few simple observations that point to why you are here, what’s wrong, and how there is most certainly a remedy.   

1. The Problem: Even a cursory examination of the day’s headlines will show you that leadership is not always executed well. Harvey Weinstein lead a film producing conglomerate in which illicit and unspeakable abuse of power victimized countless women. Mark Zuckerberg was recently cross examined to determine his part in data mining my profile and yours in an effort to increase profit. Or in the not-so-distant past, what about the 2009 “Scandal?” Tiger Woods was chased by his then-wife with a golf club (irony upon irony) that ended up smashed into the rear window of their SUV; later it was revealed there was prolific immorality and infidelity that any avid fan would say he has never recovered from. Finally, what does one make of Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, who leaked false information to investors and intentionally misled them blaming it all on what he calls “pressure to meet production goals.” No, one does not have to look far to see that leadership, on all levels, is deeply flawed and threatened by selfish ambitions and vain pursuits. 
2. The Solution: I imagine, that is why you are here. You may have this aching inside for something that speaks to the practical nature of how you engage your every day. In John 13:1-17 the story is told of the disciples and Jesus (leaders and The Leader). They are gathering to celebrate one last meal together before the purpose for which Jesus came to earth is fully displayed. His arrest, conviction and sentencing are imminent, and he knows it. (Oddly, its perpetrated by the very leaders who are supposed have the welfare of the people and the goodness of God as navigational buoys. Clearly they had lost their moorings. Perhaps they never had them…just ask Weinstein, Zuckerberg, Woods and Musk).
   Against this backdrop Jesus invites the disciples in. Everyone’s feet are caked with enough crud and toe-jam to make the strongest stomach queasy… The Leader stoops to grab a basin of water and a towel. He commences with the unthinkable, washing all twelve men’s dirty feet. In stunned silence they sit. I wonder, was there any doubt in that room who had the most authority? Who the leader was?
   Shocking isn’t it?
   I would choose a different word… humbling. It’s humbling to be served by the One who deserves all service. Therein lies the solution to our searching, we must be like Jesus. Though he was the King he didn’t act like it (see Philippians 2:1-11). 
3. The Direction: Well, over the next year my good friend Justin (follower of Jesus and global business leader) and I are committing to provide a shot in the arm, challenge to the mind and encouragement to the heart of everyone who leads in any capacity. We will do this through captivating stories of faith lived out in various leadership contexts, examine scripture together to see how theology and practice meet in our daily lives, and try to provide suggestions or resources to get you from reactive leadership to proactive leadership. In short, as Christians we know that God calls us to love Him with our heart, soul, mind and strength. Look to have all these engaged in one way or the other each post.
   
   As you are encouraged, share what has shaped you: in conversation, on various social media platforms, and with other leaders. Are you ready?… 

I'm Doug and if you've been to this blog before you already have a fair idea of who I am. I am a child of God, husband to Jessica, father to Jada, Oliver and Pierce and a friend of Justin's. I also have the joy of working as Minister of Counseling & Discipleship in the town of Tremont, IL. 

Justin: Husband, Father, Son, Friend of Doug, Global Business Leader, Mentor, Coach, Sports Enthusiast, Psalmist... Follower of The Way, The Truth and The Life.