Cynthia Weems on leadership

Cynthia Weems reflects eloquently on the challenges of leadership and transparency. I couldn’t agree more, particularly given my immediate context. A taste:

Many in our congregations are coming head-to-head with betrayal every day. They feel betrayed by an employer who lays them off after years of service. They feel betrayed by children who are hurting their families. They feel betrayed by a city that has not done enough to stop crime and reduce poverty. They feel betrayed by a church that doesn’t look, sound or feel like it used to. Most of these things are far beyond our control as pastors. But they are very much a part of the stories of our parishioners.

As leaders, it is important to examine the potential for our adding to this sense of betrayal before we act. Some pain is inevitable in our lives and in our organizations. How can we create systems that allow people to have a voice in the changes that affect them? “Voice” may not mean approval or permission. Just like a vaccination at four, some things are required of our churches in order to grow. “Voice” may simply be the conversation held in advance that warns something painful is on the way. Like the one I will have to have at next year’s annual checkup.

When Jesus spoke of his impending death, he did not ask the disciples how they felt about it. He certainly didn’t take a vote. He did, however, share with them over and over again where his ministry was leading. He invited their constant participation as the journey to the cross advanced. They didn’t understand his words. Yet he continued to offer them metaphors, parables and stories. It was only after the stinging pain of death that his words became clear to them.

And, ultimately, the disciples did not experience Jesus’ death as betrayal but as a promise fulfilled.</blockquote>