God Is In Charge

Exodus 18:13-27

1 Peter 5:1-14

Two sections from our readings caught my eye today, one from Exodus and the other from 1 Peter. “You should also look for able men among all the people, men who fear God, are trustworthy, and hate dishonest gain; set such men over them as officers over thousands, hundreds, fifties and tens. Let them sit as judges for the people at all times…” (Exodus 18:21-22a). “…I exhort the elders among you to tend the flock of God that is in your charge, exercising the oversight, not under compulsion but willingly, as God would have you do it - not for sordid gain but eagerly. Do not lord it over those in your charge, but be examples to the flock” (1 Peter 5:1c-3). Though these passages are separated by centuries, and though one comes from before the arrival of Jesus Christ and the other from after his resurrection, the similarities are striking. They each stress that the wellbeing of God’s people depends on a proper understanding of leadership. Those who lead are to be honest and devoted to God. They should be willing to serve and yet humble and restrained in that service. They should be able to offer sound judgment and oversight so that the community may function to its fullest potential. And it is clear in each case that God remains sovereign at all times.

Years ago my wife (with whom I was co-pastoring at the time) and I struck up a friendly conversation with a minister from a different denomination, one that does not normally ordain women as ministers. He was not put off by my wife’s occupation nearly as much as he was puzzled by our shared ministry. After a number of thoughtful questions he finally pointed to the two of us and asked, “but who’s in charge?” To which my wife answered, “Jesus is in charge.” The other minister laughed good-naturedly. But my wife was right. Within the community of faith God remains the foundation for all leadership. Those who would serve the church in whatever capacity must be willing to in turn to be led by God’s will. Only then can they exercise the authority given to them.

Humility, dedication, wisdom, godliness; these are the hallmarks of sound leadership. But God is always in charge.

Prayer: Lord, help us to serve you even as we lead others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.