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Power Under Leadership


5 Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, 6 who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, 7 but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. 8 And being found in human form, he humbled himself by becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. Phil 2:5-8 ESV

Last month we had the opportunity to serve 18 3rd-4th grade students from a local elementary school. The kids were an absolute joy to be with, but working with kids that young outdoors can be a real challenge. There were times when they needed special help and assistance that adults wouldn’t typically need. In many ways it was a labor of love as we endeavored to model Christ-like service and humility to them.

One of the things I have learned in many years of outdoor ministry is the power of servant-hearted leadership. Humbly serving people day in and day out in the little things inevitably leaves a big impression. Outdoor ministry gives so many ample opportunities to practice this model of leadership. At Ascend we see a servant-heart as the key to our leadership structure.

When Jesus came to this earth many expected him to be a political or military Messiah with a kingdom of this world “power over” mentality. Instead He came to usher in a new Kingdom with a “power under” servant mentality. He said the first shall be last and the last shall be first. He didn’t lord it over his subjects as earthly rulers tend to do but in love placed himself under others and lifted them up. Though he was in form God he emptied himself and took on the form of a servant. May you find opportunities this week to follow the servant leadership example of Christ.

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