If we haven’t met, something you should know about me is that I come from a “sports” family. We are extremely competitive and live for the thrill of a good game. But I wouldn’t want it any other way. Because sports are how I learned what leadership looks like.
Thankfully, I have the most awesome earthly father who encouraged us to pursue sports. Through sports, he modeled leadership for me and my siblings. He taught us at a very young age that the best type of leader is a servant leader. A leader shows up early, puts in extra work and is always the last to leave. They put others needs above their own, knowing that it’s for the good of the group. He explained that the best way to serve others is to lead by example.
I often heard him say, “a leader is the first on the court and the last to leave. A leader is the first to volunteer for a drill. The first in line to get in the weight room.”
My dad has always been that person. And he made sure that his kids understood the importance of being a servant.
I currently have a very cool opportunity to serve as the team leader for my team, Team Woven, for the last 7 months of our journey. Two months have passed and what I’ve learned is that I’m incredibly thankful for my daddy who taught me that the best leaders are those who’s desire is for others to grow.
It’s been an interesting and stretching two months as I’ve learned how to lead others with love and a servant heart. I think Brene Brown says it best in her book Daring Greatly when she writes, “I’ve come to believe that a leader is anyone who holds her- or himself accountable for finding potential in people and processes.”
As always, Christ is our example, who said that He “did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life as a ransom for many.” – Matt 20:28
I’m beginning to understand that leadership looks like humility. It looks like admitting that we can’t do it and inviting the Holy Spirit to do it for us. This is something I’m still working on. Because I want to do it on my own and prove that I am capable. But I’m learning that I become a much better leader when it’s not me. When I step back and allow space for God to break free and speak and act for me.
It’s definitely something I haven’t perfected. But I’m excited to see where the Lord takes me on this journey. I’m thankful for the opportunity to lead such an amazing group of women. Watch out for Team Woven as we spread Kingdom wherever we go!
