Theoretically, there is a desire in every man to be "the man." We all want to be the "top dog," the "Big Kahuna," large and in charge, but why is there such a dearth of good leadership nowadays?
From presidential candidates, to cell group leaders, to program directors at work, leaders are hard to find. I used to read leadership books by folks like John Maxwell or Steven Covey, but now that I have had a taste of leadership I fantasize about a cabin in Montana.
What's wrong with leadership? Why is something that seems like an honor turn out to be such a burden instead? Everyone who doesn't have it wants it, but many who have tasted it, ache.
Something dawned on me the other day. Leadership involves a painful paradox. You have to have qualities that conflict with each other.
You need to be . . .
Soft and hard both.
Gentle enough to hold the hand of a child and strong enough to take a bullet for him.
Sympathetic toward everyone, yet not swayed by anyone.
Focused on a goal but not preoccupied.
Think strategically with an eye to the future, but be present in the moment.
Be relaxed, but vigilant.
Have fun, but don't be foolhardy.
Show your feelings, but none of the petty ones.
Show your emotion, but none of the bitter ones.
Show your desires, but not the perverted ones.
Enjoy the people you are leading while dying on a cross in front of them.
No wonder it is hard to find a leader.
"And I, when I am lifted up from the earth, will draw all people to myself." (John 12:32)
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