The thoughts and emotions that immediately flooded my body and mind when I was asked to continue as the South Pacific Division president could not be hidden. It was a mixture of Really? That is a long time to ask one person to lead; Wow, the church must really trust me; Phew, I don’t have to wonder what I am doing for the next few years; Oh no, there is much responsibility, can I bear the burden of leadership again?; It’s exciting, we can pursue the renewed vision of becoming a disciple- making movement with SPD for Christ; I will need help in picking the best team; Thank you God, I will trust You, You know what is best. . . . It was overwhelming.
For me three elements stood out. First, leadership is a gift or trust that can never be taken for granted. The Church’s approach to choosing leaders ensures input from many different people, including those who work closely with the leader and those who perceive leadership from a distance. This provides a rounded perspective—but for the one chosen, it is a gift from God and the Church for a season. The gift must be nurtured for the good of the Church and the development of the individual.
Second, leadership is a burden. Every week, issues that others have not been able to rectify or solve come up. Confidential information, both affirming and destructive for people and the Church, comes across one’s desk and must be managed carefully. When should grace be applied? When is enough enough? Who has the capacity to know and work all of this out? No wonder Solomon, when faced with the enormity of leadership, asked for wisdom (2 Kings 3:4-9).
Third, leadership is a privilege. It provides opportunity to articulate a vision of God’s preferred future—the disciple-making movement before Jesus returns. This vision still excites me. Leadership enables us to work with many talented people who can shape and drive vision. Leadership also means representing the church at significant events and mixing with leaders of other organisations.
David experienced leadership and prayer was pivotal. His prayer in Psalm 28 encapsulates what is needed: “The LORD is the strength of his people, he is the saving refuge of his anointed. Oh, save your people and bless your heritage! Be their shepherd and carry them forever” (vv8,9).
