Let me start with a little backdrop to my thoughts today:
My husband had the symptoms and tested positive for COVID-19 in June. It all began during the first week, and of course, put our household on quarantine. Because of how the health department’s system is set up, though my husband’s quarantine only lasted 1/2 the month, my daughter and I stayed quarantined most of the month. I must add, we never had any symptoms, and I finally got tested because curiosity got the best of me. I tested negative. Also, my husband fully recovered having mild symptoms. (I need to say, it’s been very eye-opening on a myriad of levels. I hope to share some more of my journalism in the days to come.)
Thus, my thoughts today:
This month has reiterated to me the vitalness of being (intentional to stay) close to your spiritual leaders. It’s vital on both sides: for the individual and for the leaders.
This season/year has been a wonderful opportunity for me to step back, as a leader, and see who will rise. I say it all the time – leaders rise. You can long to be a leader, you can desire to be a leader, you can read leadership books on being a leader, you can even listen to other leaders – but if you don’t have the fortitude to actually *do* what it takes to be a leader – it’s a pie in the sky dream!
A fortified leader’s best quality is that they, themselves, are lead-able. Good leaders will never outgrow the ability to follow, and great leaders follow well. They look for opportunities to be led. They seek advice and counsel from tried and true leaders in their lives.
Next, they have the gumption to be vulnerable. Business owners, pastors, team leaders – your best leaders are humble and vulnerable. It takes guts to ask for prayer and help! It takes grit to share life – the good, the bad, and the ugly. Leaders lean on the strength of their spiritual leaders. They glean wisdom for uncertain circumstances in their lives. I’m not talking about team members who whine about everything and act like weaklings. I’m talking about leaders who rise up and understand that fighting the good fight of faith involves help from God-ordained leaders in their lives.
Another quality, and this is the one I’m learning most about in this season, is the intentionality of closeness. They understand the value of checking in. Checking in is not a bad thing! It helps us stay accountable, connected, and unified. Regardless of personality type, it takes purposeful action. And, it’s never been easier than now! When I was younger, keeping in touch with leaders was much harder. I had to write letters, make phone calls, or send dial up emails (some of you will never know what that means)! And, honestly, back then – a lot of leaders didn’t even know how to lead. Young leaders, meant to be sons and daughters, experienced quite a bit of rejection. Thankfully, much of that has changed in today’s world. Spiritual fathers and mothers are starting to step up ??!! Closeness is important, guys. Stick with your spiritual leaders. Let them lead you, care for you, and minister to you. And, don’t expect them to chase you down. You make the effort. Again, checking in is not a bad thing.
I’m forever grateful for the God given leaders in my life. They mentor me, shepherd me, and care for me. They also lovingly correct me when needed. I reach out to them to check on them, I reach out to them to check on ME!
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