When the other ten disciples heard about this, they became angry with the two brothers. So Jesus called them all together and said, "You know that the rulers of the heathen have power over them, and the leaders have complete authority. This, however, is not the way it shall be among you. If one of you wants to be great, he must be the servant of the rest; and if one of you wants to be first, he must be your slave - like the Son of Man, who did not come to be served, but to serve and to give his life to redeem many people."

Matthew 20:24-28

Christlike leadership means considering the needs of our neighbors before our own, seeking their good, encouraging their spiritual growth and intimacy with God. It means treating others the way God has treated us. Servant leaders employ gentle persuasion and reason rather than giving orders and ultimatums. They do not dictate or demand but recognize that before God they are servants doing their duty.

Whatever our position of leadership, we will never lose if we lose ourselves to others. Service that cares for others is the basis of true greatness.

Only the one who has learned to serve is qualified to lead.

Our Daily Bread - March 16, 2003