Today’s Reading, Leviticus 1-4
Focal Scripture: Leviticus 4:3 “If the anointed priest sins, bringing guilt on the people, he is to present to the Lord a young, unblemished bull as a sin offering for the sin he has committed.”
We are all sinners. How we deal with that sin makes all of the difference. Some people deny their sin and make excuses. Others acknowledge their sin and don’t move beyond it in their life. However, a wise person acknowledges their sin and then shows how forgiveness happens before the Lord. Leaders show this by examples.
In today’s reading we see a continuation of the expectations for the followers of the Lord. Specifically the priests who are consecrated to serve God. When they sin they are asked to bring a sacrifice to the Lord. An offering others can see and show that he needs forgiveness. This offering is a powerful reminder that everyone needs to rely on the Lord. That sin separates us from God. Leaders need to show to the people they serve and attitude of forgiveness.
Why is this important? To many times leaders act as if they have all the answers. That they have everything together. They can’t be questioned or bothered. Mistakes are never made by them. However, we know that is not true. Just like the priest had to perform an offering in front of others to have their sins forgiven. So leaders today need to acknowledge their faults. I am not saying they have to go into detail. I am saying they need to be humble both privately and publicly.
Leaders need to be the ones that demonstrate a heart that is in tune with the Lord. A heart that shows their people they are fallible and broken. When leaders admit their mistakes it shows that they see the bigger picture. That picture is that personal growth is better than their reputation.
I can’t tell you the number of times I have seen leaders fall and ruin their platform because of arrogance. This arrogance stems from an attitude of the heart. A prideful leader doesn’t admit mistakes. This will filter down and teach others to do the same.
I challenge you to be honest when you lead. Admit mistakes and admit your failures. This vulnerability will teach people that the Lord is the one they should follow. People should be dependent on him and follow his lead. As leaders our goal is to point people towards the one we follow.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Leviticus 5-7
