Leadership as an Art

It is interesting to see so many different successful models of leadership being used around the world.  It goes to show that it is extremely important to understand and acknowledge the context where one is working.  This books seems to model a successful way of handling people and issues.  

One particular part I thought that pertained to ministry significantly is in the fifth chapter on “roving leadership.” One problem I see today in churches is that often times a church becomes too dependent on one pastor.   The pastor leads, guides, directs, coordinates and juggles a myriad of other titles.  This can often lead to burn out.  Roving leaderships explores the idea that there are many who can help and direct in a ministry.  I think that when this occurs it enables many different people to hone in on one talent or ability they are particularly gifted in.  Furthermore, it creates healthy growth and perspective in all areas of the church.  Perhaps this model takes a little more work than average—with coordinating, meeting, and compromising, yet it seems to keep all peoples in check and promotes new ideas, goals and energy! 

Written By: Emily Lyden

A Leader's Legacy

Similar to the other topics discussed in class, A Leader’s Legacy, although not written specifically to Christians, seems to hold values and practicality that can be used in any type of ministry.  

One particular issue I thought that was revelant to ministry was Kouzes point on relationships.  In this he talks about leadership being personal.  In ministry we see this being incredibly important.  People want a pastor, leader, teacher whom is personal with them.  They are not “stand-offish” or too far out of reach.  Rather a good leader lets people see the “real you.”   

He also talks about good communication and disagreements.  Often times churches or ministries seem to lack things.  Believers are like any other humans, believe it or not!!  Issues left unsaid can really corrupt or tear up a Christian community. Disagreements are also not a bad thing.  Oftentimes they can strengthen a connection and the bonds within the groups.  

I appreciated Kouzes perspective and the different outlook he provides.

Written By: Emily Lyden

How Important is Vision to You?

It was interesting to see how Andy Stanley outlined how a vision comes to fruition.  It is very true that a vision begins as a concern, and takes time to grow, not necessarily requiring immediate action.

More after the jump...

Vision is something that is very important for me, or so I thought.  Thinking of ideas is something that comes easy for me to do.  I like to dream big and think big.  However, I have discovered that my visions often do not progress beyond a concern.  I have a difficult time waiting, and allowing something to come to full fruition.  When I have a vision, I often think that I have to do something immediately, and if I don’t then it will never happen.  Rather, after seeing Stanley’s outline, it is apparent that a vision is much more than a fleeting thought or idea.  A vision especially from the lord is something that requires effort and putting ideas into actualization.  It is something that actually goes right along with Guy Kawasaki’s The Art of the Start.  Here, Kawasaki gives useful tips to help one begin putting ideas down on paper, networking with others and actualizing beyond vision.  However, Stanley’s visioneering is something that is necessary prior actually starting.  Indeed it is important to let a vision begin.  I have found this outline useful to show that my idea of visioneering ought to be something much, much, more than what I have done in the past.  Apparently my “visionneering” needs to be much more important in my life to acutally help ideas come into being.

Written By: Emily Lyden