Leadership “is an activity in which conditions are created in which everyone can do their most courageous thinking.” – Margaret Heffernan, “Forget the Pecking Order at Work”

A dispute also arose among them as to which one of them was to be regarded as the  greatest. But [Jesus] said to them, ‘The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them; and those in authority over them are called benefactors. But not so with you; rather the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves. For who is greater, the one who is at the table or the one who serves? Is it not the one at the table? But I am among you as one who serves. – Luke 22:24-27

Ms. Heffernan begins her “TED Talk” with a study of “super chickens.” These chickens were selected and bred to be the most productive egg layers.  After six generations of chickens the “super chicken” productivity was compared with the control group – regular, healthy chickens.  All but three of the super chickens were dead.  They had pecked each other to death competing for food and space.  The other chickens, obviously, out-produced them.  Ms. Heffernan goes on to suggest that competition is, perhaps, not the best model for business.  Maybe it is not the best model for life.

In talking with a music producer, she asked him about the superstars.  He told her they had superstars, but they didn’t last very long.  The musicians who did last were those who were collaborators. He said,

“Bringing out the best in others is how they found the best in themselves.”

Almost 2000 years ago Jesus said pretty much the same thing: “the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.”

It is somewhat amusing (and perhaps a bit sad) that the world is suddenly discovering what Jesus has been saying for 2000 years.  It is equally amusing that many churches don’t recognize it either.

Jesus was speaking to the early church, which may have had the same problems that the modern church has.  Folks want to be superstars.  They want to be elected to positions of prestige and power because it strokes their ego.  Jesus says, “Check your ego at the door.  This ministry is about servants.”

I have written before about servant leaders, but I will remind you what Robert Greenleaf’s definition is: “A servant leader is one who helps others become wiser, healthier, freer, more autonomous and more likely themselves to become servant leaders.”

We are searching for a leadership model that will help this congregation become wiser, healthier, freer, more autonomous and more likely to become servant leaders.  This is not an easy road to travel.  We are looking for signs that others have passed this way so that we might be guided.  We are looking for signs that God has placed so that we might be reassured.

You’ve all seen movies about various people who have set out on a life-changing journey.   You are aware of the Hollywood pitfalls.  There is always some dark creature, evil person, or physical obstacle that taunts and threatens the traveler.  It can represent a wide variety of things – ego, longing for the past, unforgiveness, etc.  Throughout we must stay focused.  Keep the words of Jesus in mind, “I will be with you.”  But also keep some other words in mind – “the greatest among you must become like the youngest, and the leader like one who serves.”

The Presbyterian Church of Hagerstown is a family church.  I am glad to see that you are becoming comfortable with that, finding here a place not only of refuge but a place for re-energizing.  Life is often hard.  For some it is harder than for others.  I don’t know why.  But here we can be encouraged by each other, lifted up by each other, challenged to strive forward by each other.

The forest that lies ahead looks dark and scary.  But we must go through it.  “Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil for You are with me.”

Peace,

Your pastor,

Rick