“If you walk one step ahead you are a leader, but if you walk ten steps ahead you are a martyr.”
I don’t know the originator of this quote, but I think often of its wisdom. It’s intent is not to take away from a heroic kind of martyrdom like that we recall in the lives of believers willing to die for their faith when there was no other alternative. No, those Jesus freaks who so loved Him they would lay down their lives if necessary flow from a different spring. Rather, the statement derides those who in the name of leadership, or creativity, or innovation, lead so far ahead the only thing it gets them is their head served on a platter (figuratively speaking, except in the case of John the Baptist). There are those who have insights into art, or culture, or politics, or the faith, and who can so state their insights that many will follow. As a result we have historical movements, from the Renaissance or the Impressionism of Monet in art, to the Reformation of Luther or the Great Awakening of Edwards in Christian history. But we also have to recognize that others have had the same stroke of genius in terms of identifying the need for (or the opportunity of) change, yet these can get no one to follow them. Their idea may be useful, their creativity may potentially inspire many, but no one follows their movement. Some actually revolt against their ideas. Why is that? I believe the quote above gives insight. One may have a revolutionary concept that will bring much good to humanity or even great glory to God, but the idea never gains traction because the originator has neither the people skills nor the patience to share it in such a way that others embrace it. Instead of walking one step ahead so others can stay close and catch on, he walks far ahead, leaving the rest behind in confusion.
I see this all the time with young pastors trying to move a church from stagnation to vitality. The ideas the young leaders have may be biblical and helpful, and their passion contagious, but if not presented in such a way as to allow those they lead to grasp them, their views are seen only as disrespect toward the beloved way of life of those they seek to lead. The scenario too often results in a sorrowful exodus for the young minister.
I also observe this in music in worship services. We make too much of this, as changing the worship style in most congregations compares to changing the window dressing in a collapsing house. But the songs we sing do matter. Some seek to introduce new songs to a given congregation to bring freshness to corporate worship. Scripture warrants it; the Psalms often call us to sing to the Lord a new song. But introducing too many new songs too quickly, while at the same time jettisoning many beloved songs, can bring the unintended consequence of conflict in a congregation. Some will perceive a disdain for hymns and songs that tie us to a larger heritage of faith and teach great truths. That may not at all be the intention of the leader, but that can be the message presented. Someone told me that Saddleback Church where Rick Warren is pastor (a pretty innovative congregation) only introduces about fifteen new songs a year. I have not verified that, but if correct it demonstrates awareness that even among a people accustomed to change, one must balance the future with the present and the meaningful past.
It is not enough to see the need for change. It is not enough to see what needs to be changed. It is just as vital to know how to bring people along with the change. Often the most artistic and creative among us make the foolish mistake of assuming everyone sees the world like them. Sometimes, they need others to help them present their ideas, lest they be seen as arrogant when they truly long to be helpful.
If you are a leader, and particularly if you are creative, you must take care not to assume those you lead toward change resist not because their favorite hymn is “I shall not be moved,” or “take my life and let it be!” They may resist because you are so far ahead of them you have unintentionally failed to allow them be part of your movement. Remember another quote I love about leadership: “he who thinks he is leading and no one is following is only taking a walk.” Lead boldly, love your creativity, but also enjoy taking others with you on the journey.
