Jesus the Perfect Resilient Example

During a Christian Leadership Event, the participants were to identify three resilient characteristics in the life of Jesus in which they found relevant as leaders and helping professionals. My Resilient Characteristics include purposeful meaning in life (part 1), developing caring relationships (part 2), and finally, a sense of calling.

Purposeful Meaning in Life

Jesus was born to the Virgin Mary and was given a purpose in life as the man who would educate individuals about God’s word. Jesus knew his God-given path and was honored to serve in his capacity; never did he shy away from it. It took time, but I now succinctly know that my pathway is to help grow individuals and organizations to become their very best through many different efforts.

Many people will shy away from their calling as a leader or caregiver because when times get hard, it is easier to do the easy thing, but Jesus never took the easy path. I understand there will be many different challenges on my journey, and standing firm is instrumental in intentionally grow in my purpose.

Moreover, “when Jesus finished speaking, the people were amazed at his teaching. He did not teach like their teachers of the law. He taught like someone who has authority.” (Matthew 7:28-29, KJV). Jesus spoke with such grace and authority that people wanted to listen and take in what he was saying because he knew his purpose and enjoyed what he was doing. To accomplish this tasking, I found having a platform, understanding your population, and speaking to them in their language allows you to communicate and connect gracefully.

As both an educator and a leader, I have learned that leadership can easily be misinterpreted. When individuals learn that a person has a notable title or an appointed leadership position, it can be presumed that a person is a leader. Genuine leadership cannot be bestowed, employed, or designate. Leadership stems from influence, which is gained and earned not assigned. A title can guarantee a person's time to enhance their level of influence or to undermine it with others.

In summary, I understand living a purposeful, meaningful life. In doing so, having a sense of direction, I know my strengths, interests, opportunities, and my areas that require improvement. This understanding helps me to gauge the peaks and valleys of where I have been and understand the pathway for which I forge daily. Embracing my knowledge as I educate and speak encourages and inspires others to want to listen, grown, and also to begin to understand and act upon their purpose.