Issue #46, December 15, 2010
Around the world Christians are again celebrating the birth of Jesus with special programs, giving of gifts and special foods. Leaders influence the focus of these celebrations and servant leaders can learn timeless truths by reflecting on the account of the visit of the Wise Men recorded by Matthew in chapter 2:1-12.
Servant Leaders Seek Jesus.
After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, "Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star in the east and have come to worship him.” (Matthew 2:1-2) The Wise Men exerted enormous effort simply to find Jesus. They left their homes and took a long journey following a star. They inquired from Herod and the religious leaders in Jerusalem about where they could find Him. In spite of the education, wealth, and wisdom they already possessed, they were searching for someone greater than themselves. On their journey they encountered a political leader who wasn’t willing to make the journey and religious leaders who were too indifferent to travel with them. In spite of these obstacles, they were willing to pay any price to find the true source of wisdom, life, and hope. Servant leaders, men and women, acknowledge that it takes more than leadership skills and college degrees to navigate the 21st century. They are willing to leave the crowds and find time to be alone, taking their own journey to seek Jesus. They are willing to risk embarrassment as they ask for guidance along the way from others who may be able to help them. Before leading others, they seek a personal encounter with the Master Leader valuing His presence more than anything else.
To think about: Where are you in your journey towards Jesus? Do you need to take some additional time this week to leave other things and focus on seeking Him?
Servant Leaders Surrender to Jesus.
Matthew records that the purpose of their visit was simply to worship. True worship involves surrender of our lives in the presence of a King, a voluntary yielding of control as we bend the knee. It is not easy for leaders to surrender. Leaders prefer to be in control, not surrender. Herod pretended to be interested in worship, the religious leaders did not even bother, but the Wise Men chose to surrender themselves to Jesus. The Wise Men did not come to ask a favor from Him. They were not asking Jesus to bless their leadership efforts, or solve their problems, they just came to worship. Servant leaders today do the same. They bow their knee and surrender everything in the presence of Jesus.
To think about: As a leader, have you purposefully surrendered to Jesus your leadership gifts, the people you lead, your own wisdom, talent, and abilities?
Servant Leaders Serve Jesus.
On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold and of incense and of myrrh. (Matthew 2:11) The Wise Men were eager to give gifts to Jesus, beginning a beautiful tradition of exchanging gifts as we celebrate Christmas. But this was not a gift exchange; this was simply an act of service to Jesus. They received nothing in return. But they gave Him their most prized possessions indicating their willingness to serve Him with their lives. Servant leaders are not in leadership because of what they will get out of it; rather, they lead to serve Jesus by serving those they lead.
To think about: What can you do as a leader to serve Jesus this Christmas season?
As we celebrate this Christmas season, let’s remember that wise men still seek Him.
Until next time, yours on the journey,
Jon Byler
For further reflection and discussion:
- Take a few moments to quietly read and reflect on Matthew’s account of the visit of the Wise Men. Write down what God speaks to you personally.
- How can I use my influence this year to encourage others to focus on Jesus, the real reason for the season?
- To what degree is my leadership characterized by seeking, surrendering to, and serving Jesus?
This will be the last edition of “Reflections for Servant Leaders” this year. I wish you, your families, and those that you lead a joyous Christmas and wonderful New Year!
Copyright, Jon Byler 2010.