Seasons of the Spirit ~ SeasonsFUSION
Lectionary resources for worship, faith formation, and service
Leadership Qualities: 1 Samuel 8:4–20, (11:14–15)
Around the Commonwealth of Great Britain celebrations are underway for the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. During the Diamond Jubilee Concert in London on June 4, Prince Charles said that this was the nation’s opportunity to thank his mother, and father, for inspiring the nation with their selfless duty and service and for making the people proud to be British.
In 1 Samuel 8:4–20, (11:14–15) we hear the moral failings of Samuel’s sons cause the elders of Israel to seek a new style of leadership.
What would cause you to seek a different style of leadership?
What are some qualities you believe are characteristics of a good leader? What persuades you to submit to the leadership and the vision of another?
In 2008, as Nelson Mandela prepared to celebrate his 90th birthday, Richard Stengel, author of Long Walk to Freedom, “cobbled together, from conversations old and new and from observing him up close and from afar,” Mandela’s 8 lessons of leadership. They are listed below, but examples of how Mandela embodied these leadership qualities are described in the article “Mandela: His 8 Lessons of Leadership” from Time Magazine.
- Courage is not the absence of fear – it’s inspiring others to move beyond it
- Lead from the front – but don’t leave your base behind
- Lead from the back – and let others believe they are in front
- Know your enemy – and learn about his favourite sport
- Keep your friends close – and your rivals even closer
- Appearances matter – and remember to smile
- Nothing is black or white
- Quitting is leading too
What might be your 8 lessons of leadership?
“The Season after Pentecost is a time to reflect on God’s transforming presence, and our scriptures testify to a God who longs to lead us and all of creation into wholeness and peace.” ~ Biblical Background p. 40
