Jesus Style Leadership 4 - Sent & TeamSample

One Big Eye Wouldn’t Work

Leadership Lesson

Every team member is needed.

Read 1 Corinthians 12:21-26

Comment

I find Paul’s picture of a whole body that is just an eye or ear both amusing and ridiculous. It creates some amusing images in my mind. Yet that’s the way we sometimes see team. It’s easy to think that the success of a team is mostly about the visionary leader or the most gifted members. How stupid. When we focus on the “important” people, others feel that they have little place on the team. But actually, everyone is essential on the team. Every contribution is necessary. We need both hands and feet. That is what Paul is pointing out here. God has arranged every single part of the team. He has put it all together just the way he wants. We need mouths (those who can talk well) and hands (those who can do helpful things). We need ears (those who can listen to others) and eyes (those who can see what needs to be done). It’s our differences that make the team strong and effective. For example, one big mouth would be both too loud and absolutely useless, but as part of a body, it is really important. We need to celebrate our differences on the team. If you feel less significant, remember that you have been placed in the team by God and have an important part to play.

Prayer

Thanks for the people you have teamed up with me. Please help me to see and celebrate the contribution of all the members of the team as well as to work hard to use my strengths. I’m glad that not everyone is like me. We could never get the job done. May you bless and use everyone on the team, especially those who don’t get much attention.

Personal Reflection

Take some time to think about each member of your team (or friends if you don’t have a team). Thank God for the contribution they make and pray for them.