Read Philippians 2:1-11

Over the years, I have spent a great deal of time studying and learning from great leaders. Thankfully, I have not had to look hard or far to find men and women that have inspired me to grow, pushed me to succeed, and helped me get back on my feet when I have fallen in my leadership journey. Grace Church is blessed with an amazing group of pastors and lay-leaders whom God has uniquely gifted to serve our congregation and our community. What a blessing it has been to learn from them!

As I have studied, observed, and stood next to some of these individuals, one thing has consistently stuck out to me: their humility and glorification to God in success. Then again, I shouldn’t have been surprised at all. Not only are some of these people the most inspirational leaders I know, they are also the most fiercely-devoted Jesus followers in my life.

Jesus is, after all, the leader of leaders. Hands down, the greatest leader of all time. Kings, queens, and even your favorite President of The United States would never stack up against the Lord of Lords, Emmanuel. Yet, when we examine the scriptures, study the life of Jesus, and understand the people He surrounded himself with, we see a very different picture of a leader than what our 21st century depiction of a successful political or cultural leader might look like today.

King Jesus is the King of Kings, but, unlike kings and queens of 2021, He did not have an elegant entourage. No, He chose to hang out with everyday people, tend to the sick, and sit next to sinners. Jesus did not dress in fancy robes or wear jewels. Rather, He made an effort to be the antithesis of the Pharisees and Sadducees of His day, making religion more about relationships than hierarchy. Perhaps, most importantly, Jesus was not a leader that was focused on Himself. He preached love, addressed the needs of others, and ultimately sacrificed Himself for the good of humanity and in obedience to His Father.

Examining the life of Jesus gives us insight into the heart of leadership. I think Jesus makes it quite clear to us how we can truly become great leaders and great disciples in this one simple, yet beautifully complex commandment:

 “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength. The second is this: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’[b] There is no commandment greater than these.”

Mark 12:30-31.

What does humility mean to you?

Might you consider making a two-bullet to-do list for yourself today?

Bullet one- how can I love God more deeply this week?

Bullet two- what is one thing I can do to love someone this week?

Taylor Bennington