“Everyone must submit himself to governing authorities, for there s no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God… Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect then respect; if honor, then honor.” Romans 13:1, 7
Leadership is influence. To be a leader is to have influence over something or someone, positive or negative. Leaders are placed over us to cast vision, provide direction, and to make decisions. In history, we see positive leaders like Mother Theresa inspiring generations to do good for their communities and Gandhi who led a movement of civil disobedience. Other leaders have led us into destruction and hatred. Leaders can set the tone for an entire team of followers. This month, I’ve noticed, when our leader is ill or battling spiritual warfare, we become sluggish and frustrated. When our leader is laughing, excited about ministry, and on fire for worship, we also follow. Confusion or miscommunication among leadership partnerships can also create unnecessary tension between teams.
We often put our leaders on a pedestal, ascribing them respect and honor even when they have not earned it. At times our leaders take advantage of the power ascribed them and people are left confused, disappointed, frustrated and discouraged. With a history of rule by the Ottoman empire and a communist government, Albania’s 17-year-old democratic government lacks integrity and has its hiccups of corruption. Despite the generosity and kind hospitality of its people, the Albanian leaders are known by its people to extort money by charging additional hidden fees and expecting bribes.
One of the Campus Crusade staff members shared with us an example of his professors expecting a monetary bribe in exchange for good grades. When he refused and requested to look at his exams, the professor fudged the answers to the exam. Still, he maintained his integrity and would not compromise his morals. Team Silas’ leader also experienced this first hand when he had his MACBook shipped from the United States to Albania. As the locals had hinted may be the case, he was required to pay an astronomical customs fee. The government officials suggested that he may be able to get his computer for a smaller under the table fee, rather than paying the customs fee. He refused. Again, when his computer was actually delivered to him, an additional hidden fee was demanded by the delivery man. He refused to pay the fee and an argument between them ensued. Still, he refused.
In response to the widespread corruption amongst Albanian leadership, Campus Crusade has invited Josh McDowell to speak at a by invitation only event for Albanian political, business, and educational leaders on the topic of integrity. Please be in prayer for this event, Thursday, October 22. Please also pray that God will be in strong pursuit of our leadership, constantly refreshing and renewing them with fresh experiences of Him.
