Follow the Leader, Question Management

Consider the following:

• The manager does things right; the leader does the right thing.
• The manager relies on control; the leader inspires trust.
• The manager focuses on systems and structures; the leader focuses on people.
• The manager administers; the leader innovates.
• The manager asks how and when; the leader asks what and why.
• The manager accepts the status quo; the leader challenges it.

Source: Adapted from Warren Bennis, On Becoming a Leader (Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley Publishing Company, paperback edition 1994), pp. 44-45.

Definitively, Jesus is the leader. In terms of successful management? The results aren't so good. Billions of followers have walked in fellowship with the Righteous One. His leadership is unquestioned, but His managers have much to explain.

I theorize this for a couple of reasons. I'm pursuing a Marketing degree and seem to be seeing the world in corporate terms. The procedures of sound strategic planning can be applied to life planning. Brainstorming amongst co-workers equates to resource building within church. The purpose, of course, is to accomplish a defined goal by setting objectives, considering alternatives, weeding out the bad and determining the best possible solution. Doesn't stop there though; proper follow-up and analyzing is required to best measure the results. A 15% increase in sales or a 15% decrease in insecurity is only relevant if sustained.

Christians, and more specifically Christian leaders need to focus on this final step of the process most. Ask yourselves, is what we're doing about us or about Him? The answer should be obvious, but our actions and motives have some how blinded our ability to answer truthfully.

I've just been informed that my pastor is leaving his post to aid others in a different light. He has decided to become a police officer. I'm sure Sunday's service will detail his conversations and blessings from God on this life change. And I'm sure that he is making the right decision after careful and deliberate soul-searching. Part of me is saddened by the news, but I'm going to try and view his leaving as an opportunity for God to bring clarity and morality to a profession not known for those strengths.

This commentary should not be confused as a critique on any one religion or religious leader. I'm just as selfishly self indulgent as the next. But I am imploring all of us to at least acknowledge the carnage that is going around. In times like these our supervisors, managers, and even presidents need to stop the finger pointing and flag waving. Good management is utilizing people and resources to outperform stability. We need to work on that.

(Author's note: Frequent stops to Sap Town can be expected from time to time here at Idiot Central aka Yeah, I Figured. Allow us the opportunity to take you loyal readers on these sometimes unexpected detours to relevancy.)