Someone once told me “I won’t follow someone who doesn’t walk with a limp.”
I walked away from that conversation in full agreement. It got me thinking about those that have led me. Title or no title, why do I ever grant someone the permission or authority to lead me?
I can’t wholly be led by you if I can’t trust you.
I can’t trust you if I don’t know you.
I can’t know you if you don’t show your limp.
I have a hard time following someone who cannot get real and be open about the fact that they are not perfect and have limp. “I know you ‘re not perfect, no one is, so stop acting like it.” Even if it happens subconsciously, the walls go up and the defenses are readied when I encounter someone like this.
The gravity of that statement hit me when I realized that I have asked people to follow me. I am the one with the limp and God is calling me to show it.
“I know I have a limp, but will I show my limp? Will I be truly vulnerable and lead with a limp?”
Yes! How could I not? I can ask no one to do what I am not willing to do myself.
It is scary to be that vulnerable as a leader. People are looking to the leader to be confident and steady, right? But being confident and steady does not mean a leader is perfect or must try to convey that message.
A leader can lead with a limp, while being confident and steady, only when that confidence and steadfastness is found in the Lord, not in themselves.
To those I have led, currently lead, and will lead in the future, my legs have been broken and I now walk with a limp. My limp says:
I am not perfect.
I have made mistakes [and make them still].
I am only human.
I know and feel pain.
I have had experiences.
I’ve been there.
I’ve done it.
I have succeeded,
but…
I have also failed.
And I survived.
I’ve had pick up the pieces.
I did not quit.
I will fight [with you].
I will be vulnerable.
I know who I am.
Walking with a limp shows strength that comes from Christ, allowing you the freedom be the real you and invites others into that same strength and freedom.
Personal update:
I am about one month in and I have to say squad leading has been great! It is a challenge for sure, but it is an honor to finally be out here with C Squad on their World Race journey. I have been able visit three teams this month spread throughout Costa Rica (Los Guido, Rio Azul, and Jaco). They have allowed me to speak into there lives and I have learn a ton from them as well. Doing ministry with them (playing with kids, mixing cement, yard work, painting, etc) has been fun and exhausting! My co-leaders are awesome and I think we make a pretty good team! This month of ministry is coming to a close and we will soon head to Nicaragua for all squad month.
Prayer Requests:
We have been planning the squad’s first debrief happening at the beginning of next month and its not easy to get everything we need into just five days. I really want to the squad to feel loved and cared for as well as rested and ready for ministry in Nicaragua. I need wisdom and discernment to make these happen.
Also for a great all squad month!
Fundraising update:
I am a little over 50% funded! Big THANKS to everyone who has helped me get to this point!
If the Lord leads you to financial support my Squad Leading journey, follow the “Support Me” link at the top to donate online or for mailing instructions.
Love y’all!
