READ: 1 CORINTHIANS 12: 12-31
Now all of you together are Christ’s body, and each one of you is a separate but necessary part of it. (V. 27)
During my police career I attended a variety of leadership development, training courses and seminars. The central focus of these programs was to take my God given leadership skills and mold them into a successful police command career. I have no doubt that the skills and knowledges gained from these programs had a direct impact upon my character and job performance, whether good or bad will be judged by those I served and history. Yet, within this essential leadership development regimen, there was a flaw, it was not available to those electing not to pursue advancement.
Teaching ethics to the newly hired police recruits, I reminded them that they were expected to be leaders no matter what rank they held within the department. They were an essential part and comprised the backbone of the police service delivery team. They would be cloaked with the mantle of personally responsible leadership when they were officially sworn in during the academy graduation ceremony. They were the proverbial, “tip of the spear,” in police service delivery. Citizens who summoned them expected them to take command of the situation and resolve it to the best of their ability using their authority, experience and available resources. They, not some chief or commanding officer, were the daily face of police operations to the community. They were being given the training and latitude which would help them function professionally and effectively when they “hit the street.” Their initial response would directly influence the positive or negative outcome attached to any call for service. Yes, they were leaders!!
Paul reminds us that we are all part of God’s leadership plan for this world. We are all an essential part of the Body of Christ. We have been endowed by him, through the work of the Holy Spirit, with different spiritual and personal gifts. But no matter any perceived worldly standing, Jesus expects us to take a daily leadership role in concert with other Christian brothers and sisters to benefit His church on earth. Yes, we are to combine our unique gifts, with those of others, to form one cohesive body in service for Christ. One body, many parts, united in spirit and purpose to advance the Gospel!
PAUSE FOR REFLECTION AND PRAYER
Jesus demonstrated the servant-based model of leadership required to advance His Kingdom. Then, along with the Father and Holy Spirit, blessed us with the unique gifts we needed to put this model into action. Isn’t it time you inventory your gift closet and put them to use—Christ is counting on you!
Dear Jesus, breathe into me the spirit of action that I may use my time, talents and treasures in unison with my fellow believers to your glory.