beginning the conversation

My hope is that you’ve cracked open this book since leaving campus in June. But if not… don’t worry, you’ve still got a while before we all congregate back at SPU. Personally, I’m about half way through and really have enjoyed the way Shane and John have opened a dialogue on leadership as well as followership… something we don’t always give a lot of air time to.

Over the next few weeks Sam and I will be posting some thoughts and questions on here to enter that conversation with you; hopefully in order to enhance your thought process as you read the words of these two very different men, who are exploring the journey of faith and leadership together.

Feel free to write in the comments section to one another about the ideas running through your head.

p.s. Sam also added all the info you need for coming back to campus on the tab up there ^ titled info for fall, so you can reference it.

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

So, I read chapter 1 way back in June, but as I looked back over the pages these are some brief thoughts that stuck with me. I would absolutely LOVE to read yours, and hear a response.

CHAPTER ONE: raising the next generation of just leaders.

* passing the promise is the blessing.
In what ways have I felt the blessing of our Lord, by being passed the promise? That was a big question I began reflecting on. I have felt the blessing best many times when my life has intersected with that of another person following Jesus. How am I best wired to continue the promise? How are we as a program going to be the blessing by passing the promise to the residents this year?

* leadership that reproduces itself.
My guess is that the majority of us in this “leadership” program, whatever position, is partially here because of those in this position before us. In fact I know that’s true after I got the pleasure of reading about it on so many of your applications this past spring. I’m excited about the fact that this program continues to generate new leaders each year… it means we’re on the right path.

* having a dream; having a friend.
I feel like these words from Dr. Perkins couldn’t have been said better: “John: Dreaming big is not just having a good idea. Look closely and you will discover that people who have dreams that will change the world are usually people who are well grounded. When I study what makes a great twenty-first-century leader, I’m always going to look more at content of character than about financial development or fame. Character develops the kind of passion that attracts followers and resources. We don’t have to pull the trigger. We don’t have to wave a banner or grandstand. We need to quietly make friends with people; steadfastly stay the course. Jesus said, in training His disciples, “Go out, and take nothing with you. Go out and make friends! If they don’t make friends with you, go onto the next house and make friends with those people! (Jot down the word “friends.” God is our friend, and we are His friend. A leader needs friends, and followers need a leader who is also a friend.)”
Friendship is SO important. A close friend of mine has taught me an incredible amount on how friendship can literally change the world by “leaking Jesus to people”. I want to continue challenging my idea of friendship as we travel through the year.

I’m really really enjoying this book and could write a ton more but I don’t want to make this first post too long… I’m not a fan of long wordy blogs. (So there will always be pictures!) Has anything caught your heart and imagination in the book so far? Beginning the conversation and stepping into it with us is by no means required, but warmly welcomed!

peace on you all.

hannah p.

Advertisement