The Leadership of the Suffering Servant
If leaders want to truly make a difference, then they/we will have to surrender our obsession with power. Back in 2001, author and researcher, Jim Collins, released the book Good to Great. It is a fascinating read that gives us great insight into the traits and qualities of what Collins calls a “Level 5 leader.” Two of the most fascinating discoveries of level 5 leaders are personal humility and a focus on the organization’s purpose.
Think about that as you consider the many celebrity leaders that arise in our culture whose focus often is a pursuit of wealth and, maybe even worse, a pursuit of power. Sadly, the church is not immune from getting caught up in the obsession of idolizing leaders who seek power and wealth.
As Jesus began his public ministry, his first appearance was one that demonstrated both his humility and his surrender to his Father’s redemptive plan. John the Baptist was aware of his role in God’s story and that he was on earth to prepare the way for the Messiah. When Jesus came to the Jordan to be baptized, John the Baptist tried to stop him, suggesting that it was Jesus who should baptize him. But Jesus answered, “It be so now, for this it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness.”
We know from scripture that Jesus was sinless, yet in front of sinners and before his Heavenly Father, he submitted to participation in baptism, though he had nothing to repent of. His righteousness was demonstrated in complete surrender to God’s plans and purposes in his life. The divine Son of God did not come to exert control or to seek power or popularity. His mission was to fulfill God’s redemptive plan that would ultimately take him to the cross.
While the Jewish people hoped that the Messiah would come in power and exert control over their oppressors, they did not get what they hoped for. Instead, God continued his plan of redemption and deliverance in what was confusing to the religious leaders at the time. Yet, a careful review of the Old Testament scriptures was filled with hints that the Messiah would be a suffering servant who would deliver his people, not through power, but by his Spirit. And the Spirit of God is revealed through humility, submission, and love and not by those who try to demonstrate power and control.
Whether you are called to lead a business, a nonprofit, a community, or a family, our best leadership is always demonstrated by our humility, our love, and our service to the whole and not service to our selves or our wealth.
Father, today we accept your call to discipleship and once again submit to your will over ours. Forgive us for the moments we seek or celebrate power when what you call us to is surrender. Fill us with your Holy Spirit that we might be effective witnesses of your love to the world. In Jesus’ name, amen.
Your Time with God’s Word
Matthew 3:13-17 ESV
