Reflections on Christian Leadership - In the Name of Jesus

In the Name of Jesus Henri Nouwen describes what Christo-centric, servant leadership is all about. He states, "Much Christian leadership is exercised by people who do not know how to develop healthy, intimate relationships and have opted for power and control instead." Nouwen's leadership focus is on building God's Kingdom and not our own. The book is very short but is packed full of crucial teachings for current and future leaders. The newest edition features a helpful study guide with about 10-12 stirring questions.

I appreciated Nouwen's desire to make the transition from leading from power to leading from humility. I could identify with the cultural tendency that he named, to become well educated, have a big church and have power. I found his book inspiring, sobering and holding me accountable to living the life of humility and contemplation in my work as a leader and pastor.

Henri Mouwen always challenges me and this was no exception. The book was not quite what I was expecting but still was good, tho not his best. I thought he tried too hard to fit this writing into an assigned teaching.

Short read, lifetime of wisdom.
Simple truths, profound statements.
Insightful for young leaders, but potentially wrecking and revealing for older leaders.
Read it for personal growth, not to critique others.
I benefitted much. Still learning, will come back to it again.

When I began reading this short book I was immediately drawn to Henri Nouwen's focus. It is an excellent source for anyone involved in ministry. Provides a whole new perspective on being more effective with a different approach.