Jars of Clay ...

"But not so with you. Rather, let the greatest among you become as the youngest, and the leader as one who serves." - Luke 22:26 

Management Consultant Peter Drucker once wrote, "No institution can possibly survive if it needs geniuses or supermen to manage it. It must be organized in such a way as to be able to get along under a leadership composed of average human beings." While Drucker has been a popular resource and widely read, few C.E.O.s have ever gotten hold of this concept.

Jesus wisely selected "average human beings" to serve in spiritual leadership. He himself gave us a perfect example of what it means to be a "servant leader". This model alone allows for all glory to be given to the Lord. Paul reinforced this principle in 2 Corinthians 4:7, "But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us." 

Are you surprised that God has chosen to use "jars of clay" to serve Him? Have you finally settled on the fact that you will best serve the Lord as an "average human being" my friend? Do you lead through serving, striving to give God all the glory? Remember; It's all about HIM and not about us.

Alone with God...

"Now when Jesus heard this, he withdrew from there in a boat to a desolate place by himself... And after he had dismissed the crowds, he went up on the mountain by himself to pray. When evening came, he was there alone" -- Matthew 14:13, 23

In our western culture social interaction has become overwhelming. There never seems to be a quiet moment to be found. We go from meetings to celebrations to games to parties to community events with little time between. Most of us are constantly surrounded by people, from family members to church members. Many of us actually choose this lifestyle because we don't know how to deal with extended quiet moments. Is there any value in being alone?

Jesus had just heard about the death of his cousin John the Baptist. He was grieved over the death and sought a quiet place to be alone and pray. When pressed by the crowds he responded with gracious compassion. Yet, when this ministry was completed, the Lord slipped away by himself to pray. Jesus knew the value of quiet time with his Father.

I am sure that you have heard the phrase "take time to smell the roses". But we need to do far more than "smell the roses". Spiritual health for the Christian leader also needs quiet time to reflect and commune with the Lord. We need time to rest and seek His face with our joys and sorrows. As the Lord sought time to be alone, you will find restored strength, and renewed vision by making regular times to be alone with God.

~ PJVS