Let every person be subordinate to the higher authorities, for there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been established by God.
I'm grateful for the celebration of Presidents' Day and the day off that it affords for many - though not all - of Americans. And, I'm taking advantage of the day to pray for the leaders of our country, that they would lead in ways that promote peace, justice, and charity.
Similarly, this day provides a chance to pray for leaders in all capacities that we would also lead in ways that honor our God - building the Kingdom of God on earth as it is in heaven.
But, ever since coming across a reflection about leadership in 2021 in which I learned that Jesus never asked anyone to lead, I've reimagined my approach to leadership.
Simply, I've tried to serve instead of focusing on leading. In moments where I feel that my ministry runs into roadblocks, I ask myself how can I better serve God and those around me. I recognize that any leadership position or responsibility that I have has been entrusted to me by God. Instead of being in charge, I'm a steward, meant to faithfully use the gifts and resources given to me in ways that leave this part of the vineyard in which I work better when I leave it.
As we imitate Jesus Christ in all things, our leadership roles should be used to point others to Him. Our leadership should encourage others to follow Him. Rooted in service, our ministries as leaders should focus on doing the most good for the most people within our communities.
In other words, our leadership should stem from an orientation of service, laying ourselves down for the good of others. Like St. Paul told the Corinthians, "Thus should one regard us: as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God" (1 Corinthians 4:1).
