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Matthew 22:37-40 “‘You must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, and all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. A second is equally important: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’
All throughout the Gospels we read story after story of Jesus’ interactions with people. He invited those who were outcasts to sit at the dinner table with Him, which in Jewish culture was a symbol of friendship. He spent time with those who were never “good enough” for the religious leaders of His day. Today, we look back on the life and ministry of Jesus and recognize that He had the single greatest impact on people in the history of the world. How did he do it? By loving people.
While leadership can be defined in many ways, Jesus demonstrated that real leadership begins by loving people. It begins by recognizing that every person is sacred, valued, and worthy of love. Ministry leaders today may look at attendance numbers as the ultimate marker for the success of their church. But for Jesus, real success in leadership is revealed by our love for people.
READING & PRAYERS:
LUKE 10:25-37 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: In the parable of the Good Samaritan, there were some who chose not to see the injured man by the road. Are there any people you have been taught not to see? How can you grow as a leader who truly sees them?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Pay close attention to any person (or group of people) you regularly ignore or turn away from. Today, instead of turning from them, turn toward them. Pray for them. Maybe even pray with them.
Take a Step: Remember to continue utilizing the One Minute Pause app throughout the week. If possible, begin to explore and practice the 3, 5 or 10 minute pause to more deeply root yourself in Christ.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I confess I don’t like to think about who I sometimes ignore and look away from. Today, may I not turn away from anybody, but I may turn toward everybody I see. May they see You in me. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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