A Message From Our Kahu
Biblical Leadership
During my study leave earlier this month, I read through the readings in the Revised Common Lectionary* from January 11 through February 15, which is the Sunday before the Season of Lent. Since most of the Old Testament readings are from the Book of Isaiah, I spent some extra time reading through the entire book and also did some research on the culture and politics of Judah during the period of time that those words were written.
One of the things that caught my attention was how prominent the theme of leadership is in Isaiah. I paid close attention to that theme and found examples of “visions of leadership” that Isaiah had for his nation. I also was reminded how Jesus was the fulfillment of that vision as the leader of all who follow him. I decided to focus on “biblical leadership” as a theme until Lent begins.
Since Isaiah focused on national leadership, I have found some striking similarities between Judah in the 5th through 7th centuries and our nation today. I also see some of the same kinds of leadership between both of those periods. My hope is that our nation will embrace Isaiah’s vision of leadership which is peaceful, compassionate and just for all the people living in our land, including the poor, the hungry, the sick, and those living in fear. I also hope that we can honor that kind of leadership wherever we see it and at every level: local, our island state, and national.
May we challenge and improve poor leadership, and may we celebrate and honor the kinds of leaders who are committed to the kind of leadership which God desires.
Aloha Nui Loa!
Kahu
*Scroll down to learn about the Revised Common Lectionary and see this week’s readings.
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