Throughout our lives, we are often told how important it is to be a leader and not a follower. We are often shown images of individuals who stepped up for certain causes and were (or are) immortalized as influential leaders. Abraham Lincoln, Rosa Parks, Mother Teresea, John Cena; just to name a few that fit this label. We look up to these people and strive to make similar strides in our own lives. These qualities are not only deemed admirable, but they tend to define success.
Considering all of this, I am of the opinion that the following phrase qualifies leadership: Lead me.
Many might look at this and wonder how does this qualify leadership, as it seems to go against what most have understood about the topic.
When we ask someone to lead us, we are giving them the authority to influence us; to be an example for us to follow. When we ask someone to lead us, we are allowing them to guide our path. At first glance, this phrase can prove to be dangerous, as it allows one to have great control over another's life. At the same time, it is also a very humbling phrase. You are admitting that there is someone greater than yourself, and desire to be like them.
The sense of danger, however, is put into question when we look at the 12 Apostles. The Apostles, with all of their individual lives and goals, were ultimately followers. They gave up everything to follow Jesus and learn from Him. What made Jesus stand out from any other man exactly? He led His followers to righteousness, and called for them to let that righteousness show. In Galations 5, Paul expanded on this by differentiating the results that come from the being led by the flesh and fruits that comes from being led by the Spirit. The issue here comes down to the fruits that one wants as a result of being led. Are we seeking righteousness, or are we seeking something else?
All things considering, I'll conclude with this:
Who is it that you call 'leader'? And where are they leading you to?
Or rather, what is it that you seek out of following them?
