John Stanko

“Everything they do is done for people to see: They make their phylacteries wide and the tassels on their garments long" - Matthew 23:5.

The Pharisees performed their religious rituals with one value in mind: be noticed by other people. Their desire was to draw attention to themselves so people would honor them as leaders and consider them spiritual men. Jesus commented that they did everything to attract the attention of others. Leaders cannot get away from their values; what they consider important is what they will do and how they will act every chance they have. And authoritarian leaders are doing things for one reason, no matter what they do: to establish that they are in charge and worthy of the honor and benefits they believe the position warrants.

LEADERSHIP STEP: Why do you do what you do as a leader? Is it to draw attention to yourself? Your Step today is to reflect on your motivation for leadership. Are you offended when people don't treat you with the respect you think they should? Do you need the best office and parking space because you are the leader? Do you do the things you do to serve others or to promote yourself? It's important that you be honest with yourself concerning these answers.