092807

September 28, 2007

Leading and Leaning

by Shana Schutte

In Luke 19:28, Jesus led his disciples by walking in front of them. In John 13:3-5, He led them by washing thier feet. In John 9:1-12, he led them by healing a blind man. But while He led His followers, He also leaned into His Father--He pressed into God out of need. When He needed to be strengthened, He spent time alone in prayer (Mark 14:39); when He grieved because of Lazarus' death, He wept and called out to God for help (John 11:1-44); and even on the cross, He leaned into His Father and cried out because He needed comfort.

Where did we get the idea that godly, competent Christian leaders don't need; that they're never really desperate; that they are always in control and composed--and if they are truly sanctified that they always have a "Hallelujah!" on their lips?

We didn't learn it from the Psalms where Asaph cried out, "Will the Lord cast off forever? And will He be favorable no more? Has His mercy ceased forever? Has His promise failed forevermore? Has God forgotten to be gracious?" (Psalm 77:7-9)

We didn't learn it from Moses who led a stubborn nation and cried out to God saying, "What shall I do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me!" (Exodus 17:4)

We didn't learn it from Paul who was weak because of a thorn in the flesh and asked God three times to remove it. (2 Corinthians 12:7-10)

Those who want Christians and Christian leaders to be postured and perfect, appeal to the flesh. However, Scripture shows a different picture of what it means to be godly. While Christian leaders lead, they can also lean into Christ out of need and desperation. Those who have learned to be intimate with God know they don't have it all together and they are willing admit it.

Certainly, we can lead without leaning, but we'll be lonely. Or we can choose to throw ourselves at the feet of Christ, and on God's mercy--then we'll experience comfort and deep relationship with the One who knows us best.

Who do you lead? Is it your children, your wife, a work group, a Bible club, or a mountain biking team? If you desire to draw those around you closer to Christ, give yourself a break. You can stop thinking that being a "strong Christian" means you don't have needs or flaws. Blessed Believer, just rest and let yourself be real. God is the only One who has it all together.

After all, the Gospel is one of need: we needed a Savior, so Jesus died; we need comfort, guidance and wisdom, so God sent the Holy Spirit; we need love, so He gave us each other; we need hope, so He grants it.

Ah yes, and even while Jesus, the Son of God was leading, He was leaning out of need.

"For we do not have a High Priest who cannot sympathize with our weaknesses, but was in all points tempted as we are, yet without sin." (Hebrews 4:15)

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