Prior to the Race, my definition of leader was someone who was loud, people naturally followed, and had the ability to get things done. When asked if I would be willing to lead a team back at training camp, I said no. I’ve never led anything like this before and feel much more comfortable playing the part of encourager, support, a reliable sidekick if you will. I’m happy to assist in any way possible, but me in charge, no thank you. As months passed, I received feedback on this decision from multiple AIM staff members.
What exactly was it that they saw in me? I wondered.
I pondered this question and really prayed into it asking the Lord to reveal who HE saw me to be.
“Father I want to be who you have created me to be. Help me see the qualities you have already placed inside me. Let me learn from others and grow in your definition of leadership.”
And with that the Lord began to reveal and redefine my definition of a leader. I noticed my current team leader Cameron preferring others above herself. Ashley, the quiet worker, completed tasks when no one was looking. Kate was always willing to do the dirty jobs no one else wanted to do. I watched as Laura jumped into ministry giving 100% even though she had just spent the past 3 weeks traveling and checking in on other teams. And Amanda took such great care of each squad member on the 3 plane rides and 40 hour travel days from Costa Rica to Thailand. Seth and Kyle rolled with the punches and laughed off any “sklogisitcal” hiccups (and yes, that’s a word 😉 The list goes on and on.
I’ve learned a lot about true leadership over the past 4 months just by watching the examples the Lord has placed right in front of me. So when our squad leaders Laura and Amanda asked me to prayerfully consider leading a team beginning month 5, I already knew the answer. I had been praying and fasting, telling the Lord that whatever He had planned for team changes, I was ALL IN!
Someone recently told me the Lord’s not concerned about ability as much as availability. And I want to be available to receive all that He has for me on this journey.
So there you have it… I am now leading an amazing team of 4 women and 2 men and to be honest, it’s been a much more natural transition than I anticipated. I’m definitely learning as I go, but instead of doing things in my own strength like I would have just a few short months ago, I am now fully relying on HIM. It’s no longer me and MY ability, but Christ in me.
It’s already been quite the ride (which I will share a little about in my next blog) but for now, please pray for wisdom and discernment and that I will completely rely on the Father to lead me as I love and serve my new team.
