Responsibility of a Leader

In today’s Gospel we hear Jesus continue to use the imagery of master and servant. Here Peter asks Jesus if the parable of the relationship between a master and servant is meant for the disciples, or for others. Jesus makes it known that the one who is in charge of the servants while the master is away has a great duty and responsibility to look after the other servants. “Truly I say to you, he will put him in charge of all his property.” (Lk12:44). But it is not only that the one in charge of the servants becomes their master, for the master will return. Vigilance is to be upheld while the master is away because it is not known when the master will return. “then the servant’s master will come on an unexpected day and at an unknown hour.” (Lk 12:46). Jesus is speaking about the responsibility not only of the leaders he is training his twelve apostles to become, but for leaders even today; there is a great responsibility placed on those who lead. Leadership is not meant to be one of punishment and ingratitude, on the contrary, it is to be an embodiment of true accompaniment. Accompaniment is a word that recently has been used quite frequently, and it is important to understand its full context. Accompaniment is meeting a person where they are at, and loving them for who they are. It is in the latter portion that we fail to act upon in many situations. While we are accompanying a person, we do not push or pull, but walk with them on their personal journey toward the love of Jesus Christ. Here is the true meaning of leadership, to be a servant and a guide to those we are leading.

Reflection: How am I a leader?

Lord God, thank you for today and every day. Thank you oh God for your love and mercy. Allow me Lord, to open my heart to you and to others, that in my leadership roles I may show the same love and mercy that you show me each and every day. Send forth your Spirit Lord that I might be filled with your light to shine to others in all that I do today. I pray, through our Lord Jesus Christ, your son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever, Amen.

Resources: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/102418.cfm