So hold it loosely.
Even in the best-case scenarios, even when someone is doing a fantastic job, there is often a term. You know going in that there’s an end date. Most of the time that’s a pretty helpful detail to know.
Most of the time we don’t know.
As a pastor, I’ve come to realize that my spiritual leadership over individuals has a lifespan. I very rarely know in advance what that is, but every situation and relationship has one.
There could be some sort of time frame to pass: days, weeks, months, years. There could be some kind of quota to reach, before God essentially says, “OK, you’ve done your part. Now this person needs what someone else has to offer them in their next season of life.” There could be reasons why — perhaps prematurely — someone says, “No thanks. I’m out.” And ultimately in the end there’s always death: the death of the organization, the death of individuals I lead, or my own death.
I’m learning to be OK with all that.
Teach us to number our days,that we may gain a heart of wisdom.
Psalm 90:12
What if the duration of a leadership stint says less about my success, and more about God’s sovereignty?
The more I learn to hold leadership with open hands, the better I lead. And — as a surprising bonus that reminds me that the kingdom of God is all about joy — the more fun it becomes, too.
