National Association of Christian Ministers Leadership Series
By Michael Mooney, NACM Exec. Elder
In today’s world there are a growing number of reasons why ministers begin to position themselves as unapproachable. Some common reasons are: busyness, or too many people in the congregation, and sometimes even spiritual pride. (Some ministers have even gone so far as to appoint “armor bearers” that serve as an intermediate contact between themselves and their parishioners.)
Then bottom line here is that often ministers make the mistake of becoming unavailable to God’s people. When this happens, it may work for them for a while; however, it is bound to catch up with them. Eventually they will begin to lose rapport and trust with the people to whom they minister. The results of such can be devastating to any ministry, leaving it virtually ineffective and fruitless.
Consider Jesus’ leadership approach to ministry:
Then little children were brought to Him, that He should put His hands on them and pray. And the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Allow the little children to come to Me, and do not forbid them; for of such is the kingdom of Heaven (Mat 19:13-14).
Jesus, the minister of all ministers and the greatest leader who ever walked the earth never became so busy that he was unable to spend a few moments blessing a small child. There is great power in this principal. May we as leaders never forget this example, for it is paramount to our ability to continue in leadership (in the church or in business).
Reflective Questions:
1) List 3 ways in which leaders often may fool themselves into thinking that they have good reasons for becoming inaccessible?
2) How have you (or someone you know) been hurt by this leadership mistake?
3) How can a busy leader direct people through intermediate channels without making people feel that they are inaccessible?
