Let’s reflect on Matthew 20:26-28, where Jesus teaches that true leadership begins with servitude. He came to serve, not to be served.
Matthew 20:26-28 -New American Bible (Revised Edition)
26 But it shall not be so among you. Rather, whoever wishes to be great among you shall be your servant; 27 whoever wishes to be first among you shall be your slave. 28 Just so, the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom[a] for many.”
Remember the profound moment in John 13:12-17, when Jesus washed his disciples' feet?John 13:12-17-New American Bible (Revised Edition)
12 So when he had washed their feet [and] put his garments back on and reclined at table again, he said to them, “Do you realize what I have done for you? 13 You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. 14 If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. 15 I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do. 16 Amen, amen, I say to you, no slave is greater than his master nor any messenger[a] greater than the one who sent him. 17 If you understand this, blessed are you if you do it.
These 2 passages serves as a beautiful reminder that genuine leadership centers around humility and prioritizing the needs of others.In challenging times, finding common ground becomes easier when we lean on our faith in God.
Today, information is just a click away, but this abundance can drown us in confusing content on social media. It often feels like navigating a buffet of mixed messages and click bait.
The good news is that we can all seek and hold onto faith, regardless of the earthly social media platforms we use or our personal beliefs.
Let’s be honest—there’s no quick solution to erase prejudices from our hearts. This is part of our human experience, rooted in original sin.
The real answer lies in embracing humility and seeking God’s grace in everything we think, say, and do.
Currently, we find ourselves amidst various #movements that can divide us over who holds the ultimate truth, leading to familiar conflicts.
We tread a dangerous path toward desensitization.
This year has witnessed a troubling rise in online verbal disputes escalating into real violence.
In sharing this, I want to highlight a principle that resonates with everyone, regardless of their faith or beliefs.
When tensions rise, let’s practice F.A.I.T.H. (Find Agreement In the Heat of battle). Finding common ground doesn’t require us to compromise our beliefs; it’s about engaging in respectful dialogue and recognizing that differing opinions can coexist. This principle reflects the freedom we cherish in our U.S. Constitution, a freedom many around the world yearn for.
However, we must exercise caution. #Movements can become rigid, leaving little room for conversation, much like the Pharisees of biblical times.
As a society, we seem to be forgetting how to agree to disagree. Instead of getting caught up in absolutism—which can lead to violence—we should foster understanding.
Just the other day, I heard on the radio that the American Psychological Association (APA) now claims that “traditional masculinity is psychologically harmful.” They highlight traits like stoicism and competitiveness, but they seem to overlook the positive aspects of traditional masculinity.
Many of their views appear influenced by current discussions around gender identity and fluidity, often leading to heated debates about gender reassignment.
It’s time for us to evolve our perspectives on social consciousness, especially regarding bullying and aggression. Both genders can contribute equally positive qualities without the need for reassignment.
The ongoing cultural acceptance of transgenderism adds another layer of complexity. We must appreciate the unique strengths of both men and women while respecting our differences. Movements can be beneficial, but they should proceed carefully to avoid extremism.
We live in a time where Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z coexist. Thanks to technology, we have the opportunity to learn from and mentor one another.
From a Gen X perspective, traits like stoicism and competitiveness are not merely masculine—they're human! Think of trailblazers like Susan B. Anthony and Helen Keller, who asserted themselves powerfully.
Remember World War II? Women stepped up significantly, working in assembly lines to support the troops. The APA’s guidelines might label that as “toxic masculinity,” but history teaches us to honor significant events like the Civil War and the Holocaust to avoid repeating past mistakes.
Let’s focus on the present and nurture both mankind and humanity.
We can achieve this by embracing servant leadership instead of merely engaging with social media.
The unhealthy buffet of mixed messages has not only created division but also led to loss of lives.
While servant leadership has roots in Christianity, it’s a principle anyone can adopt, including those who identify as atheists. It’s about stepping up as leaders, protectors, and providers—essential roles for both men and women.
Men who genuinely embrace their masculinity do not harm others; they contribute significantly to the growth and success of the family unit, the cornerstone of society. They are committed to protecting and promoting the common good.
As we navigate this world of diverse generations, rather than calling for an end to “Toxic Manhood,” let’s encourage everyone to embrace Servant Leadership. Also During conflicts or disagreements, let’s practice F.A.I.T.H. (Find Agreement In the Heat of battle). Regardless of our backgrounds, let’s all step into the role of Servant Leaders, ready to repent and forgive past mistakes.
