⁷  He told a parable to those who had been invited, noticing how they were choosing the places of honor at the table. ⁸  “When you are invited by someone to a wedding banquet, do not recline at table in the place of honor. A more distinguished guest than you may have been invited by him, ⁹  and the host who invited both of you may approach you and say, ‘Give your place to this man,’ and then you would proceed with embarrassment to take the lowest place. ¹⁰  Rather, when you are invited, go and take the lowest place so that when the host comes to you he may say, ‘My friend, move up to a higher position.’ Then you will enjoy the esteem of your companions at the table. ¹¹  For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, but the one who humbles himself will be exalted.“Luke 14:7-11 (NAB)

949    To aspire to positions of responsibility in any apostolic undertaking is a useless thing in this life and a danger for the next. If it’s what God wants, you’ll be called. And then you ought to accept. But don’t forget that wherever you are, you can and you must sanctify yourself, for that is why you are there. (1)

One of my favorite apologetic works, The Hitchhilker’s Guide to the Galaxy, talks about the leadership in a rather unique way.  Simply put, the one who is best to lead is the one who desires it the least, and even abhors it, but takes it on because of necessity. 

It’s one thing to want to be the leader in elementary school or even the class president in high school, or the captain of a team.  It is far different to lead a company, or for that matter, to lead a congregation or a church body.  It is a task that no one should want, for the pains, and experiences can shatter a man’s faith.   And they often do.

But there is something else that can grow in such a crucible, a level of faith and dependence upon God that goes beyond the security we seek.  An assurance of the presence of God’s comfort, of God’s love, and of His presence.    An accepting of the task, a determination to go the distance.  Not confident of our own abilities or strengths, but simply confident of the fact that we aren’t leading, He is.  THat is what holiness, sanctification is truly about.  Not about pious appearance,,, but about walking with Christ.

Christ the Saviour (Pantokrator), a 6th-century encaustic icon from Saint Catherine’s Monastery, Mount Sinai. NB – slightly cut down – for full size see here (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It is then we are ready to undertake such a role….

Thanks to all who lead…. in Christ.  ANd may those who lead btw own strength, find the courage and strength to let the Paraclete lift them, turn them and guide and support them as they follow God.

(1)  Escriva, Josemaria (2010-11-02). The Way (Kindle Locations 2201-2204). Scepter Publishers. Kindle Edition.

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