*WELCOME TO ANOTHER EXCITING EPISODE OF HIGHWAYS OF LEADERSHIP WITH ESTHER IYOJO OKO*
Leadership is often romanticized as a position of authority and power, but friendly leadership goes beyond that notion, embodying empathy, compassion, and service. Today, let me take you on a journey to explore how Jesus exemplifies these qualities, showing us a path of transformational leadership.
*JESUS Embody Compassion and Empathy*
At the core of friendly leadership is a genuine concern for others. Jesus was a master in expressing empathy. His encounters with the marginalized, the oppressed, and the downtrodden were not mere acts of kindness; they were deep expressions of understanding and compassion. Whether it was healing the sick or feeding the multitude, Jesus listened, understood, and responded to the needs of those around him, The NATURE of Jesus is still ALIVE IN US HELPING US to lead with COMPASSION AND EMPATHY.
In our own leadership journeys, let's emulate this quality. Let's take the time to truly listen to those we lead, recognize their struggles, and offer support where it's needed. Empathy is a profound tool to connect and inspire others.
*OUR PERFECT EXAMPLE OF LEADERSHIP IS JESUS CHRIST. He Leads by Example*
Jesus leads by example—a hallmark of friendly leadership. He didn’t just preach about love, humility, or forgiveness; he lived these values. Remember the scene of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples? John 12:1-17 It was a powerful act symbolizing servitude and humility, flipping the traditional hierarchy on its head.
In our workplaces, communities, and homes, let’s lead through actions, not just words. Being genuine and consistent in our values creates a ripple effect, encouraging others to follow suit. Our lives should reflect the principles we seek to instill in those we lead.
*HERE IS A CALL TO Empowering Others*
Jesus recognized the potential within others, empowering them to become leaders in their own right. The apostles, once ordinary individuals, became the torchbearers of his message. Jesus taught them, equipped them, and trusted them to continue his work just like you and I carring on the great commission as accounted in Matthew 28:19-20.
As friendly leaders, our role is not just to guide, but to nurture potential within our teams. By providing guidance, training, and trust, we empower others to grow and lead alongside us. Remember, true success isn't measured by personal achievements but by the legacy we create through those we inspire.
*Cultivating an Inclusive Community*
Inclusivity was a cornerstone of Jesus’ leadership. He didn’t just associate with the influential or the revered but surrounded himself with a diverse group of people, breaking societal barriers and fostering a sense of community.
Inspire inclusivity in your circles. Celebrate diversity and let every voice be heard. A truly inclusive environment is fertile ground for innovation, unity, and progress. As leaders, it’s our duty to create spaces where everyone feels valued and included.
*Jesus Confronts with Grace*
Finally, friendly leadership doesn’t shy away from confrontation, but it approaches it with grace. Jesus often addressed difficult truths, yet he did so with love and understanding. Whether it was challenging the hypocritical or correcting his disciples, his confrontation was meant to uplift, not belittle. just as Jesus confronted the Samaritan woman in John 4 other Jews couldn’t even speak with her. yet because Jesus was different, he spoke with this Samaritan woman- a snubbed gender within a disposed race. Through this personal connection, God reached an entire city.
Jesus leadership in John 4 teaches us that: leaders initiate the contact.
1. leaders establish common ground.
2. leaders listen and allow others to speak.
3. leaders arouse interest.
4. leaders take others only so far as they are ready to go.
5. leaders accept others where they are.
6. leaders stick with the key issues. 7. leaders communicate issues directly and simply.
Embrace transparency and honesty in your leadership. When challenges arise, face them with integrity and warmth. This approach not only resolves conflict but also builds trust and sincerity within your team.
In closing, Jesus exemplified a leadership style rooted in love, service, and humility—virtues that can transform the fabric of any community or organization when embraced. I challenge each of us to reflect on his teachings and embody these values in our own leadership roles.
With a heart full of compassion, actions that speak of integrity, a focus on empowering others, a commitment to inclusivity, and the courage to confront with grace, we can truly become friendly leaders who inspire, change, and elevate the world around us.
Thank you, and let us go forth to lead with love and kindness. I love you all. JESUS IS LORD. Hallelujah.
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