Musings... On Leadership.

I have found myself of late thinking about leadership and sometimes questioning the effectiveness of my own. Of course, my musings are connected to both the unfolding chaos I am witnessing south of the 49th parallel and my own challenges as a leader of now three faith communities.

My understanding of leadership has long been grounded in the words of the prophet Michah, “What does the Lord require of you but to do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?” (Micah 6:8). 

Doing justice, working toward right relationship is never a linear, straightforward path, it involves deep listening and patience as stories are shared. Loving mercy is about forgiving, and always being open to learning. And, walking humbly with God is to always be in awe of what the Divine may be able to do in spite of our efforts. 

These words of the ancient prophet Michah are not just for leaders of ancient Israel, or current day politicians, or paid religious leaders of today, they are for every person who dares to step into a role of influence—especially when lives hang in the balance.

Leadership, in every spiritual tradition, is not defined by control but by care. In the Christian tradition, Jesus models leadership grounded in humility, self-sacrifice, and a deep attentiveness to the needs of others. True leadership requires integrity—the ability to hold the weight of responsibility not for personal gain, but for the flourishing of others.

This week the Executive of Sackville United Church will wrestle again with the need for leadership in our ministry with children and youth, as they consider the possibility of making a financial appeal to the congregation for $5000.00 to support the creation a of Children & Youth Faith Exploration Coordinator position. 

The Executive has tried, unsuccessfully, a couple different approaches to meet the need for ministry with children and youth, and still I say, we must resist the temptation give up in exasperation. Instead, we are, each of us, called to be the steady presence of integrity in our own spheres. We are called to model the kind of responsibility and maturity that we long to see in our leaders.

Leadership is not only for board room tables and oval offices, it is found in school and church meetings, in community gardens, in kitchen table conversations, in protests and (sometimes) in pulpits. Wherever someone chooses to lead with courage, humility, and care for the common good—there, true leadership is offered.

May we all be leaders in this community we are a part of.

Lloyd 

A question for further reflection, “What qualities of leadership do you most long to see in the world (globally and locally) right now? How are you embodying those qualities in your daily living?

Looking Ahead

This morning, I am in Moncton for an appointment with my audiologist followed by pastoral visits at the hospital and visits with two individuals in senior care facilities. Thankfully there are no evening meetings.

Tuesday will be spent working on a liturgy and reflection for Sunday, interrupted only (I hope) by joining with the Sackville Seniors Luncheon group for lunch at Patterson’s Family Restaurant.

On Wednesday morning I am again in Moncton for two pastoral visits and a meeting (arranged weeks ago) and gathering with the Visions UCW for lunch at the Country View Restaurant. I’ll be back in Sackville for a 4PM meeting with the Executive of Sackville United Church.

Thursday will be devoted to chores at home or the trailer – in either place it will likely involve a paint brush!

Friday and Saturday will be days off and on Saturday I hope to join with many others for the performance of the Gay Men’s Chorus at Trinity St. Stephen United Church in Amherst, NS. The doors open at 1:30PM and the show begins at 2PM. Tickets are "pay-what-you-can" at the door with all proceeds going to the Cumberland Pride Committee.

On Sunday (June 22) I will be offering leadership at Central United Church. This gathering will be broadcast. The Rev. Heather McClure will offer leadership at Visions United Church and Sackville United Church will be sharing in a Centennial Hymn Sing.