Hola from Evan of the Leadership Training Program! This was our groups last day working in, and with, the community. As such it was a day filled with many emotions. We were at once excited to see the growth of relationships, yet sad to know that we would be leaving all of our new family. Especially within the small groups at our leadership conference, a special bond had formed. We had all been blessed by getting to work with students that were extremely receptive and eager to grow in both their leadership and Godliness.
In this last day, Pastor Sean spoke of encouraging the heart. He spoke of how a leader must speak life, and build up their people in order to achieve their vision. He spoke with great clarity and conviction, and his message was well received. Often when placed in positions of leadership we tend to think the focus should be on us, the leader. His words served as a great reminder that the purpose of a leader is to motivate others, and to find joy in their achievements.
All of this lead to a point on servant leadership, and choosing to model our leadership habits after Jesus. It was with this in mind that Pastor Sean asked all us on the team to follow His lead and wash the feet of our Brothers and Sisters at the conference. This was a big thing to ask. Some of us were nervous, others were simply not feet people. On the other hand, this was a big thing to ask of the Salvadorian students as well. To allow someone to wash your feet while speaking words of affirmation to you can be just as humbling as being ask to wash the feet of another.
But it was with this seemingly awkward task that we were acting out the most important components of God-honoring leadership: No one is above another. A leader must humble himself in two ways. Firstly, taking the place of a servant and putting others above yourself. Secondly, that a leader must embrace their own inherent weakness in allowing others to assist and motivate you. With this in mind we began to wash one another's feet.
As we washed one another we spoke words of encouragement, both to them and their vision for their future (Personal side note- I love to compliment people. Often I think people do not always know how to receive a compliment so having a free pass to compliment away made my day). The room filled with prayers and ran high with all kinds of emotions and tears. This act became proof positive to us all that simple words of genuine affirmation can have a huge impact. It is something that can become a challenge in everyday life, to see the good in all people, and to not be too embarrassed to publicly recognize it.
This day was a true blessing to our whole team. We heard similarly inspiring stories from the others as well. Our time here so far has been blessed. All the people we have interacted with have had a true and endless joy that comes from their reliance on and love for God. They have received us with open arms. Speaking openly about their dreams and aspirations, and even the obstacles they face. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. Knowing that they have both the vision, and know the tools, to initiate and greatly positive change for their community.
One last thought to be kept in your prayers. Two of our team members, Mike and Chris, unfortunately picked up injuries during our day. Please pray for their quick recovery, and that the rest of our team may remain healthy for the rest of our trip.
Adios from San Salvador!
Evan Swerdfeger
In this last day, Pastor Sean spoke of encouraging the heart. He spoke of how a leader must speak life, and build up their people in order to achieve their vision. He spoke with great clarity and conviction, and his message was well received. Often when placed in positions of leadership we tend to think the focus should be on us, the leader. His words served as a great reminder that the purpose of a leader is to motivate others, and to find joy in their achievements.
All of this lead to a point on servant leadership, and choosing to model our leadership habits after Jesus. It was with this in mind that Pastor Sean asked all us on the team to follow His lead and wash the feet of our Brothers and Sisters at the conference. This was a big thing to ask. Some of us were nervous, others were simply not feet people. On the other hand, this was a big thing to ask of the Salvadorian students as well. To allow someone to wash your feet while speaking words of affirmation to you can be just as humbling as being ask to wash the feet of another.
But it was with this seemingly awkward task that we were acting out the most important components of God-honoring leadership: No one is above another. A leader must humble himself in two ways. Firstly, taking the place of a servant and putting others above yourself. Secondly, that a leader must embrace their own inherent weakness in allowing others to assist and motivate you. With this in mind we began to wash one another's feet.
As we washed one another we spoke words of encouragement, both to them and their vision for their future (Personal side note- I love to compliment people. Often I think people do not always know how to receive a compliment so having a free pass to compliment away made my day). The room filled with prayers and ran high with all kinds of emotions and tears. This act became proof positive to us all that simple words of genuine affirmation can have a huge impact. It is something that can become a challenge in everyday life, to see the good in all people, and to not be too embarrassed to publicly recognize it.
This day was a true blessing to our whole team. We heard similarly inspiring stories from the others as well. Our time here so far has been blessed. All the people we have interacted with have had a true and endless joy that comes from their reliance on and love for God. They have received us with open arms. Speaking openly about their dreams and aspirations, and even the obstacles they face. We will keep them in our thoughts and prayers. Knowing that they have both the vision, and know the tools, to initiate and greatly positive change for their community.
One last thought to be kept in your prayers. Two of our team members, Mike and Chris, unfortunately picked up injuries during our day. Please pray for their quick recovery, and that the rest of our team may remain healthy for the rest of our trip.
Adios from San Salvador!
Evan Swerdfeger
August 19, 2013 at 10:27 AM
Praise God for His amazing love! I have loved reading about your experiences!!