Many times when Leadership is mentioned then it’s placed in terms of politicians, religious leaders, etc which is synonymous with power and authority. In general, it’s perceived as mysticism with the assumption that it’s an imported spice of imperialism and western colonialism. It is also believed to be an exclusive virtue acquired only through cultural formalities and a heritage for a few.

Rarely is leadership thought about in the context of daily life? However looking at the definition of Leadership by J. Oswald Sanders in his book Spiritual Leadership, he states “Leadership is influence” This definition helps to demystify and widen our perspective of what leadership is. From a mother in a home, the teacher in a class, an employee at work, a pastor in the church, a doctor in a health centre, a mechanic in a workshop, a barber in the saloon, a politician in his constituency. All these are places where influence can be made either positively or negatively. The bible says in Mathew 5:13-16 “You are the salt of the earth…. You are the light of the world……Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven”

As human beings more so Christians we are called to influence by being the salt and light of the world. We therefore can’t afford to wait to be in positions of power and authority for us to do so. To influence requires us to stand up for Jesus above all as our Lord and savior and more so to stand out to be like him (Christ-like). Thomas Jefferson once said “In matters of fashion, swim with the current. In matters of conscience, stand-like a rock”

We are in a generation that is ever-changing with massive opportunities and challenges that is in dire need of people who can be answers in our time, who can see the future and step boldly into it, who can witness for Christ above all else, who are willing to stand for the truth, who can cause something to happen, who can take on their role with excellence and zeal, who can proclaim like Paul said, “I have fought a good fight…..”

That’s why at a time like this we need more leaders who can say “here I am Lord send me”. Through Rock Magazine the Leadership series will challenge you to find an area in your life which you can influence for Christ and be a transformation change agent. The Management guru Peter Drucker pointed out the fundamental description of what leaders are, as; lifting a man’s vision to higher heights, the raising of a man’s performance to higher standards, the building of a personality beyond normal limitations, the turning of common men into uncommon men. Look out how you can do this in your area of influence in the next upcoming issues.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, concerned citizens can change the world. Indeed it is the only thing that ever has”   Margaret Mead

Allen. K. Baguma

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