Henri Nouwen in his wonderful little book titled In the Name of Jesus: Reflections on Christian Leadership shows just how “out of touch” he was in his day. Irrelevant leadership? Puh-leeeaaze! 

The temptation is to be relevant. To show power, ability, or rightness.

“Words like right-wing, reactionary, conservative, liberal, and left wing are used to describe people’s opinions and many discussions then seem more like political battles for power than spiritual searches for the truth.” 

Boom.

“Christian leaders cannot simply be persons who have well-informed opinions about the burning issues of our time. Their leadership must be rooted in the permanent, intimate relationship with the incarnate Word, Jesus, and they need to find there the source for their words, advice, and guidance.”

Boom.

God, help us. God… help me.