5/18/17
Many churches throughout the world use a Bible reading schedule called a "lectionary." It's just a fancy word meaning "selected readings." Posts like this reflect on the readings for an upcoming Sunday or other Church holiday, as found in the three-year lectionary.
Our culture often talks about ideas such as leading by example or servant leadership. It points out that teambuilding is valuable in nearly any organization. There is doubtless some measure of truth to this idea. Just as there are times when leadership must be by decree and command, there are times when we can build a next generation of effective leaders by example and exploration of issues.
In John 14:15-21 we find not only a clear teaching of God as the triune God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but we also find the leadership style of the Holy Spirit. Jesus calls him the “helper.” The Holy Spirit, though infinitely superior to us, is the one who comes alongside us, nurtures us, holds us up when we are in danger of falling, and guides us along the way so we will not stumble. He, along with the Father and the Son, is the helper of God’s people.
Christians can also develop a habit of leading by helping. In many instances, that is exactly what our culture needs. When we see those around us who are struggling, who are confused, who have lost their way or never knew what the way was in the first place, we are also doing the work of the Holy Spirit when we bring encouragement and compassion to our neighbors.
What is the direction we give in our helping? Jesus tells us. Our work is shaped by God’s commands. It is the decree of God which shows our concern for God’s kingdom. Helping others to fit into God’s commands will help them see their place in the kingdom as well. Our Lord has given His Word. It’s high time we used it to the best possible effect.
If this brief meditation was helpful to you, I hope you will check out the other materials on our website at www.WittenbergCoMo.com and consider supporting us.
Many churches throughout the world use a Bible reading schedule called a "lectionary." It's just a fancy word meaning "selected readings." Posts like this reflect on the readings for an upcoming Sunday or other Church holiday, as found in the three-year lectionary.
Our culture often talks about ideas such as leading by example or servant leadership. It points out that teambuilding is valuable in nearly any organization. There is doubtless some measure of truth to this idea. Just as there are times when leadership must be by decree and command, there are times when we can build a next generation of effective leaders by example and exploration of issues.
In John 14:15-21 we find not only a clear teaching of God as the triune God - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, but we also find the leadership style of the Holy Spirit. Jesus calls him the “helper.” The Holy Spirit, though infinitely superior to us, is the one who comes alongside us, nurtures us, holds us up when we are in danger of falling, and guides us along the way so we will not stumble. He, along with the Father and the Son, is the helper of God’s people.
Christians can also develop a habit of leading by helping. In many instances, that is exactly what our culture needs. When we see those around us who are struggling, who are confused, who have lost their way or never knew what the way was in the first place, we are also doing the work of the Holy Spirit when we bring encouragement and compassion to our neighbors.
What is the direction we give in our helping? Jesus tells us. Our work is shaped by God’s commands. It is the decree of God which shows our concern for God’s kingdom. Helping others to fit into God’s commands will help them see their place in the kingdom as well. Our Lord has given His Word. It’s high time we used it to the best possible effect.
If this brief meditation was helpful to you, I hope you will check out the other materials on our website at www.WittenbergCoMo.com and consider supporting us.
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