February 2004
Peter

Then Peter said to Jesus, "Lord, it is good for us to be here; if you wish, I will make three dwellings here, one for you, one for Moses, and one for Elijah." -Matthew 17:4

Daring Boldness

This is loveable, impetuous Peter: a disciple known for boldness that bordered on foolishness, whose life was a tangle of conviction and fearfulness, insight and ignorance. Yet he was a disciple that Jesus held especially dear. Eyes still dazzled by the white light of the transfiguration, Peter jumped to action, any action, that might hallow the moment. There was no guile in this man, only a genuine gentle spirit who loved with his whole being.

Leadership, like discipleship, is a process not a product. It is a journey we undertake, not a destination we achieve. It is a willingness to engage the tough questions and to face the confusing situations. It is a willingness to admit we are not always wise, or in full control, or better than the rest. It is being Peter to those around us-bold and eager, undaunted by expectations and conventions, dazzled by Christ's presence. It is stepping out in faith to the glory of the One we love.

There is a time and a place for caution. There are times when holding fast and even backing off might be in order. Sadly, these exceptions have a tendency to become the rule. Without a dash of daring, opportunities may be lost. In the name of caution, possibilities go unrealized. Leadership that does not dare to explore and question or change and improve is not leadership but management. Managers are not the same as leaders. Leaders seek to be creative, and to that end leaders can be impetuous and audacious. Leaders lead with a lavish love that will not be deterred from building whatever can be built for the Lord we honor. Such daring boldness can transfigure the world that God loves.

In your congregation, where should you be bold now?

Prayer: Release us, O Lord, from all that hinders us from living and leading with boldness and courage. Free us to act in your name with energy and zeal and to trust all else to you. Amen.