We had such an interesting Gospel one Sunday. It was from Mark 10:42-45.

“As you know the rulers of the nations lord it over them — But it shall not be so among you — I have not come to be served but to serve.”

Considering how many of our institutions have not seemed to have heard this particular message too well, one wonders if it isn't time to bring Jesus' way of leading to the fore.

This lesson about those who hold authority came in response to James and John asking to be top, the best, the recognized. Without demeaning them because of such a request, Jesus simply says what true leadership really could look like.

It seems that he really did mean what he said because remember at the Last Supper how he was the one to wash the feet of his disciples? How much clearer could he be? To be a humble leader, willingly and lovingly meeting the needs of others, would seem to be Jesus' way.

Jesus taught by example: We recall how he sat down with sinners as well as the healthy to share meals and even his ministries. That certainly looks like he considered everyone as having equal value.

That doesn't sound like a leader who has power over those under him. It sounds more like power with, not over.

And he took his disciples with him wherever he went — to healings and weddings. Eventually, he said something like: “Go, and you will do more than I do,” which looks like a leader who empowers his followers and lovingly includes them in his special works.

Just considering a few examples from the gospels leads us into understanding leadership as being enhanced when:

A quiet presence and true humility is felt.

A profound sense of equality and dignity in all those governed is realized.

A seeing through to be able to empower others to develop their talents is a top priority.

A genuine trust in what others are able to accomplish is developed.

A sharing of duties and responsibilities is the keynote approach.

Is it too much to ask? Could it be a goal for all in any kind of authority?

To evaluate how we each are in the positions we hold as parents, teachers, ministers, politicians, police personnel, doctors and nurses — all supervisors in so many areas of life — is a good thing. Let all of us who are involved in giving good leadership support each other in achieving a better world.

The Rev. Kathy McCarthy is co-pastor of the Pathfinder Community of the Risen Christ.