As we celebrate Father’s Day this Sunday it is difficult to separate the role of a father and what it means to be a man. Historically, men have found a lot of their value and worth in physical strength and size. Men are typically bigger and stronger than women and in the ancient world at least, the bigger the man, greater would be his position in the society. In the book of 1 Samuel, King Saul is a good example of this. The Israelites wanted a king like other nations, so they chose Saul who just happened to be a full head taller than the average man in Israel at that time. Even in our modern time there is a bravado that is expected to come with male leadership in our society. Society looks to an authoritative kind of male leadership that has been successful in the military, the business world or the world of sports as the benchmark of leadership. Once again, scripture turns the societal norms on its head, projecting a kind of spiritual leadership that is counter cultural as it reflects and glorifies God.

The Bible definitely describes a unique role of male leadership for our homes, churches and communities. But if you are trying to understand that leadership through the lens of secular leadership, you will be disappointed. Scripture calls men that have first surrendered to God to be a leader after the pattern of how Jesus led. In addition to being our Creator and redeemer, Jesus is also the ultimate example of servant leadership: Jesus came not to be served, but to serve the needs of others. What our families, churches and communities need are leaders that will follow the example of Jesus and be loving leaders to those God has called them to serve. Join me this Sunday as we take a fresh look, and for some of you, a completely new look at what God has called men to do and to be as husbands, fathers, and members of society.