In a conversation today, I was reminded of something that I believe strongly regarding leadership. It is a responsibility, a privilege, an incredible opportunity. What could it be?
It is the "calling out" of a person's gifts, passions, strengths...validating their abilities, who God has created them to be...helping them dream the dreams of what their life might look like.
This may sound arrogant, high and mighty, etc, etc. But I have witnessed and experienced so many young men, especially...but young women as well, who are longing for their boss, pastor, coach, supervisor...and dare I say, their Dad, to simply validate who their are and who they might be.
Jesus did it with Peter. You will now be known as the "rock'". You will be an integral part of building my church. He also wasn't afraid to call Peter out in the same chapter for going in the wrong direction..."get behind me satan"...Peter you are clinging to evil; following the plan of men rather than God's plan (Matthew 16).
Three or four years ago, I had the awesome opportunity, along with a couple of my colleagues, to sit at the breakfast table with Don Soderquist. Don is the former COO and Vice-Chairman of Wal-Mart...known as the "keeper of the culture" at that time. Among many fascinating stories Don shared, he related his experience as a young man working for a crusty old boss. He was not sure his boss really took note of him and when he was consistently treated unfairly by another supervisor, Don decided to quit.
He went into this boss' office to inform him that he was quitting. This tough crusty old man, looked at Don and said something to the effect,"If you were an ordinary young man, I would understand. But I believe that you are an extra-ordinary young man." Don says it changed his course. He decided to hang in there and if I remember right, Don became the President and CEO of the company.
The power of validation...of calling out. An important part of leadership.
