In other words, when faced with uncertainty, crisis, or chaos, most of us revert back to what is comfortable and fall back into the familiar.
This realization is especially instructive for those involved in any kind of spiritual leadership.
Because whenever I have times of uncertainty, crisis, chaos, or even “well, things are smooth, what should I do now?” I always go back to what I know how to do: prepare sermons and make visits. It’s what I’ve always done. Get ready for Sunday by visiting people in the home or hospital Monday through Saturday.
What I don’t do is fall into the unfamiliar or embrace the uncomfortable.
Which for me would include:
Intentional discipleship of our church’s leadership core;
Writing out a thorough, comprehensive ministry plan;
Having difficult conversations that are easier to delay or avoid;
Surprising the staff with gestures of affirmation and appreciation.
None of those are my default mode of operation.
All of them are vital not only to my growth as a leader and Good Shepherd’s growth as a congregation.
So today, perhaps, I’ll make it a point do some things that aren’t natural but are essential.