Never Leave Anyone Behind

I was asked why I tend to stay at the back of the pack whenever we go out for events and such. Some have even said that true leaders will be at the very front guiding the group and leading the way. This is very true but there is a reason behind my method. I have always been a strong proponent of training up the leaders and empowering them to take on the role. If you take the time before a big hike or an excursion into the wild to assess the strengths of the team, give the leader the support needed to guide the group and look for ways to encourage throughout the adventure the leader will never be alone in the journey. When the time comes, however, for the trek to begin, you will find me at the back watching to make sure there are no stragglers, taking care of the needs of the group as they manifest during our travels. There is a leadership quality in being the last one out and its not that we are afraid to be the first one in but rather we are concerned for the team and want everyone to get out safe and sound at the end.

In the Army Med Corps I was always taught that the medics never left anyone behind. It does mean that, at times, you have to sacrifice your own needs for those of others but it does bring great satisfaction seeing the entire group formed up as they gather after the journey. There is a strength in helping and being in leadership from the back of the pack, serving the needs of those as we all journey towards the same goal.

Servanthood is such a wonderful gift and can be a great community builder. Jesus knelt at the feet of the disciples to wash their soles and gave us the perfect example of servant leadership.

“You call me ‘Teacher’ and ‘Lord,’ and rightly so, for that is what I am. Now that I, your Lord and Teacher, have washed your feet, you also should wash one another’s feet. I have set you an example that you should do as I have done for you. Very truly I tell you, no servant is greater than his master, nor is a messenger greater than the one who sent him. John 13:13-16 NIV

“I have set the example for you”. In a time set aside for teaching and enabling, Jesus showed the leaders, the disciples, the true meaning of leadership. Go and equip, train and empower and once you have done that watch over those you have coached and help them along the way. Too often we get to the point where we rely solely on the Pastor to lead the church when it should be the faithful taking up the reigns and steering the horse while the clergy provides the support, training and the resources for the community of believers to reach out while reaching up. Sunday we are going to explore this passage and others that will encourage all of us to take up the yolk and be at the feet for Christ.

Shalom

Pastor Todd