As we finish this summer’s book choice, Spiritual Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders, I am overwhelmed with the sheer responsibilities of a life well lived in leadership for Christ and others. The truth is, it’s never easy to easy to follow in Christ’s footsteps. This book only cast a light on the work I still have to do to help others toward Christ’s life-giving promises and it only made it more apparent of my absolute need for Christ to do it. I hope it did the same for you.
Over the course of my life, I have discovered one hard truth and that is that I am absolutely helpless without Him. I wrestled with that understanding for a very long time because I hate that word, “helpless.” I don’t like the idea of “vulnerability” or “dependence.” It’s hard pill to swallow knowing I’m not enough. Yet, it wasn’t until I realized that I truly was at the Mercy of Christ that I really began to understand what true leadership meant. This helplessness drove me to prayer. It humbled me. It took me from wanting to rely totally on myself to NEEDING to wholly rely on God.
The truth is, we are all asked to be leaders and serve others in the name of Christ. It’s not a matter of “if” but “when” we answer that calling. This book simply gives you the roadmap on how you can listen for that prompting and why, when you hear it, you should act upon it.
It is impossible to be exactly like Jesus, however it’s a height worth reaching for. I know I fall amazingly short, but the journey of a Christ-focused life is well worth it.
As you look for ways to lead others into Christ’s care, say this little prayer, “Dear Lord, please help me embrace greater dependence on you. I don’t want to do life on my own any more. I want you to lead me in every area. Empty me of self and fill me with the Holy Spirit. Amen.”
