Today’s Devotional/Discussion thought…

A quote for leaders… (of every kind)

^11:1 And you should imitate me, just as I imitate Christ.  1 Corinthians 11:1 (NLT)

This verse ends a chapter which requires great humility, as we hear Paul talk about not giving offense which would inhibit another’s walk with Christ.  As a pastor, and one who works with broken churches, ( every church is broken, some brokenness is simply more visible) I hear these stories all the time.  A former pastor who may or may not have cared, a phrase uttered in the midst of a longer conversation, but that stuck with those who heard it.   Pains that are decades old, but still as tender, and then something rips the scabs off, releasing a flow of blood that may cleanse the wound, or may allow for infection, given the way it was treated.

That is where imitating Christ needs to become a focal point for leadership – where we put aside what we desire, and sometimes, yeah – what we need.  We set aside ourselves that we can be there to nurse the wounded to strength, to encourage their trust in Jesus, to bring them to the altar – not drive them out of the church because we were irritated by them.

That is Christian leadership.  I like how I came across Christ’s leadership in this manner in my devotions this morning.

 Our Lord is on the Cross saying, I am suffering so that men, who are my brothers, may be happy, not only in Heaven, but also—as far as possible—on earth, if they really embrace the most Holy Will of my heavenly Father.  (1)

To my friends in leadership, whether in the church, in government or business, to those who lead from an office, or simply have influence which people follow – please lead sacrificially,  lead in such a way that people can embrace God’s embrace of them, in such a way that God’s will is made manifest, and they can rejoice.  Serve, not command.  Be willing to suffer, in small and large ways.  As one who tries to live this, and is occasionally successful …. the rewards of seeing people embraced by God is more than worth whatever inconvenience, or pain.

Imitate Christ, that others may imitate you…..

and when you struggle to make that sacrifice…cry out to Him, and He will have mercy..  AMEN!

(1)Escriva, Josemaria (2011-01-31). The Forge (Kindle Locations 1123-1126). Scepter Publishers. Kindle Edition.