“Everybody wants to rule the world.”

by Cherie-Lynn van der Merwe

I can’t stand this indecision.

Married with a lack of vision.

Everybody wants to rule the world. (Lyrics from a song by Tears for Fears)

Every group of people needs leadership. Good leadership brings unity of vision and encourages growth for all. Without good leadership, the group may dissolve into countless individuals following their own pathway or, even worse, spiral out of control into a situation of mass devastation.

The question is, “Who within the group needs to fulfil the role of leader?” Does it always have to rest on the president, CEO, priest, or committee chairperson?

I want to suggest that the person who occupies the so-called “head” role in the group ought to have leadership qualities but not necessarily take up the role of sole leader. I would further suggest that a person in such a leading role would do well to recognise the need for leadership to be a shared responsibility.

Sadly, some occupy top positions in countries, companies, and even churches that fall into the trap of confusing leadership with authoritarian rule, as they hold tightly to all decision-making. Likewise, some want to place all leadership responsibility on the person at the top and refuse to consider that they, too, have gifts and talents to offer towards the group’s growth.

Leadership is not about title and position. It is about accepting the invitation to use God-given abilities and strengths to empower the group to fulfil their obligation. As St. Paul succinctly expresses it, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.” (Phil 2:3-4)

A healthy group that experiences diverse but unified leadership can adapt and be flexible. They are able to invite change and welcome opportunities to stretch and grow. They are resilient both individually and collectively.

There is a recognition that things do not always go according to plan and that mistakes will be made, but there is always an opportunity to bounce back wiser and stronger. Such groups value each member, applauding their successes and supporting one another when a broken heart or dream needs time to mend.

The greatest challenge is occasionally recognising that the group’s work can wait as they pause to listen to one another with openness and generosity. This is the power of shared leadership, where each member’s unique strengths and talents contribute to the group’s success.

Such a group does not simply evolve. It takes courage, introspection and sacrifice. There is no room for manipulative behaviour or power play. Each member must guard their heart against subtle jealous thoughts or the pull of power. I would suggest such a group would be hard-pressed to even attempt this without seeking the grace of God.

Servant leadership is a gift that keeps on giving. It has the potential to powerfully change the course of communities in which the groups serve, from uncontrollably running off a cliff in the fogginess of life to taking a helpful turn onto a green pasture where all may find enough of what they need.

It is, after all, what Jesus would do. He would lead not by ruling but by sharing the responsibility with his disciples. This is the essence of shared leadership – a model we should strive to emulate.