“… And whoever wants to be first must be your slave–just as the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:27-28

Be the Example!  We are called to show others and influence and shepherd them, not just tell them.  Christian leaders are responsible for caring for God’s people with faithfulness and honour, and never out of harsh or improper motivations!  Jesus is our archetype and pattern for who we are and what we are to do all in love and humility.  We can trust Christ to lead us; with Him, we can lead others in the same manner.  Jesus calls us by first demonstrating to the Disciples to participate in and spread the kingdom of God, focusing and developing others for Him by service, example, and humility (Matt. 23; 2 Cor. 5:20).

Jesus did the extraordinary when He took a towel to wash His disciples’ feet.  We do the opposite when we think we are too good to serve. Jesus completely redefined what leadership and service are. He made the point that these roles are not about position or pride in the world, but rather about our position in Him.  A bowl and towel would be perfect because they represent service–The Ultimate Servant, Christ, not only washed His disciple’s feet but washed the sins of the entire world with His very own blood.  Christ came to serve to exemplify service. It comes from our gratitude in realizing who Christ is, what He has shown us we can do, and our opportunities and our response in gladness to those around us (Matt. 20:27-28; Luke 22:27; John 12:25-26; 13:2-5; Phil. 2:1-4).

As it’s much likely the Diocesan Youth Council of the Anglican Youth Fellowship Akure Diocese will be announcing the next set of youth leaders for the next three years. For this reason, the Diocesan leadership retreat is themed A Call to Service from Matthew 20:26-28. The call to leadership is a call to service to God and Man.

The retreat will run from Friday, 9th of February to Sunday11th of February,2024 at the All Saints Anglican Church Iloro Igbara Oke.