Who is leading? How about you?
When Jesus rode into Jerusalem on the back of a donkey, he knew full well that arrest, ridicule, torture, and death awaited him (Matthew 20:18). Yet, Jesus courageously mounted a young colt and orchestrated the triumphal entry (Luke 19:28-38).
"Almost any man in such a case," wrote William Barclay, "would have considered discretion the better part of valor and if he had come to Jerusalem at all would have slipped in under cover of night and would have kept prudently to the back streets until he reached shelter. But Jesus entered Jerusalem in a way that deliberately set himself in the center of the stage and deliberately riveted every eye upon himself."
Other biblical characters were much more reluctant to accept difficult assignments. When Saul learned that Samuel intended to anoint him king over Israel, he tried to hide. When Moses was commanded by God to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt, he tried every way possible to squirm out of the assignment. When Gideon was ordered to take on the powerful Midianite army, he pleaded for additional reassurance. Ananias hesitated before accepting the responsibility of preaching to Saul of Tarsus.
Many gifted leaders today try to avoid any responsibility that may require sacrifice or additional pressure. That's why some talented people don't run for political office-they just don't want the hassle. As a result, less qualified people rush into the
leadership vacuum, as we can see in the White House now and the nation wanders as sheep without a shepherd.
The same is true in the church. Not many American Christians are asked to walk into the teeth of death. But there are difficult assignments that we know in advance will require sacrifice. Capable people refuse to serve as nursery coordinators, pulpit committee heads, chairmen of the elders, youth sponsors, choir directors, or building committee chairmen because they anticipate the pressure and criticism those positions automatically bring.
It is easier to sit in the audience and observe and complain about the music than to step into the spotlight and be scrutinized and berated. As Wayne Smith says, "It's one thing to sing the national anthem, it's another to join the army."
But Jesus showed us a better way. He headed for Jerusalem simply because other people mattered more than self. His compassion for people drove him to "endure the cross and scorn its shame" (Hebrews 12:2).
Many presidents have sent their people out to war to die for them. But there has only been one king who went forth to die that his subjects might live. The triumphal entry demonstrates again why Jesus is King of kings and Lord of lords.
There are certainly times we should say no to additional responsibility. Maybe we're not gifted in a certain task. Maybe we're already overburdened. But the next time you're asked to serve in a demanding leadership role for which you are qualified, remember the selflessness of Jesus. Instead of saying, "Can't you find someone else? I don't really have the time," consider saying, "Sure, I'd love to! Thanks for asking."
The one recruiting you will be shocked.
Others needing your service will be blessed. You will experience the satisfaction of making a positive contribution. And above all, you will be walking in the footsteps of Jesus. "To this you were called, because Christ suffered for you, leaving you an example, that you should follow in his steps" (1 Peter 2:21) .
Consider
I. What is the riskiest assignment, position, or task you ever took on? How did it turn out? How did the experience affect you?
2. Pretend you are one of the disciples who hears Jesus outline his plans for the triumphal entry. If he were to ask you, "What do you think?" what would you say?
3 How could you step forward more courageously for Christ's service in the next week or month? How can you prepare yourself for this task?
pastor paul leavens - Minister Christian Church in Lindsay