Shane Ash

Have you ever had one of those moments when you read something that perfectly describes what you have been thinking but didn’t know how to say?

Well, today I read a great post (click here to read) from Craig Groeschel (LifeChurch) that really resonated with me. I too want to be a pastor that lives 100% authentic and open…even when it means sharing my own struggles and weaknesses. Some people have other expectations of their pastor (some want a super-spiritual-saint that is seemingly above all temptations). But I want to be known as a sincere follower of Jesus (first) who happens to be a pastor (second).

One of the great Biblical examples of authentic leadership is found in the story of Josiah. When Josiah’s cleaning crews rediscovered the lost scriptures he demonstrated his own authentic sorrow by ripping his cloths. He knew God would expect true and open repentance from the leader. So he humbled himself and demonstrated authentic repentance by admitting his failure and then proceeded to lead the nation in repentance.

Josiah became known as a follower of God (first) who happens to be a King (second). When Josiah died the epitaph inscribed on his tomb read, “Throughout his lifetime the people did not turn from following the Lord God.”

People followed the lead of an authentic Josiah…they were motivated by his admission and growth as a follower of God.