The Leadership of Jesus

The Leadership of Jesus

In this time of elections, this Sundays Gospel teaches us an important lesson on Leadership. The example of Christ’s leadership invites us to reflect on what moves our politicians to run for office. It is no secret that once power is achieved, there is a certain desire for more and more power, that in the end corrupts us. However, Christ’s leadership is not anchored in power but in service; service which should be mirrored by his followers.

No matter what background we may have, all of us are given the opportunity and responsibility to exercise leadership in our lives. As a guideline, the gospel points to the leadership that translates into service to our neighbour. Thus, service motivates us to leave behind any sort of egocentric or selfish desire, so that we may serve others’ needs and respect them.

Serving others and respect for others is to be fostered in the Domestic Church – The Family. Every member of the family is called to serve one another. “Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children in the faith, prayer, and all the virtues. They have the duty to provide as far as possible for the physical and spiritual needs of their children” (CCC 2252). It is a two-way street. Parents are to serve their children, as children are to serve their parents, by showing them respect, being obedient to them and assisting them.

During this time of elections, those who run for office are to exercise their service to the citizens, taking on the responsibility to respect the dignity of the individual and to protect families (cf. CCC 2254). Therefore, it is paramount that the leadership the future elected officials will exercise for our country may mirror the example of the leadership of our Lord.

Before heading to the polls, say a prayer, and ask the Lord that he may lead the heart of the future elected officials to serve and lead in the same way he taught us to serve one another.