In light of launching Leading Jesus’ Way, I have recently had the opportunity to speak a number of times on servant leadership and what it means to lead Jesus’ way. It is always interesting to find out how many people think of leadership in the context of their title in their professional realm.

A pastor friend of mine always said, “If God’s work is going to be done on earth, it’s up to us.” He also said, “Christ has no hands and feet but yours.” When I asked him about that phrase he pointed me to a 16th Century poem by Teresa of Avila. Here’s an excerpt:

“…Yours are the hands, yours are the feet,
Yours are the eyes, you are his body.
Christ has no body now but yours…”

Unexpected Leaders

God uses ordinary people in extraordinary ways for His glory and the fulfillment of His purpose. Throughout history, God has chosen some of the most unexpected people to fulfill great purposes:

• Abraham: An Old Man
• Moses: A Stutterer
• David: An Adulterer and Murderer
• Peter: A Fisherman
• Matthew: A Tax Collector
• Saul / Paul: A Former Persecutor of Christians

All of these people seemed to be unqualified to fulfill the purpose that God called them to, yet each became renowned leaders because they focused on serving the greater good of others.

Things are no different today. You are called to be a servant leader right where you are. God will equip you; all you need to be is a willing vessel.

Starting with the Fundamentals

So how do you start? Here are a few fundamentals:

• Help others by connecting them to their personal purpose and vision for their life.
• Lift people up by letting them know you are recognizing the important and excellent work they are doing.
• Raise expectations and help people achieve them.
• Care for and love the people around you.
• Listen – carefully, thoughtfully and without judgement.
• Be present and approachable.
• Align your actions with your words.

There are no passes on servant leadership because you do not consider yourself a “leader”. Whether you are a doctor, a stay-at-home mom, an executive, a farmer, a pastor, or any other profession, you have been called to live out these fundamentals.

We are all called to become a servant leader and you have been given a unique platform in which to live out your God-given purpose. Pray for guidance in this area and share with us how you plan to implement these fundamentals in your life.

Jesus called them together and said, “You know that the rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them, and their high officials exercise authority over them. Not so with you. Instead, whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first must be your slave— just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:25-28 (emphasis added)