Looking for a leader

In this year of important elections, it is wise for voters to look to men and women of the past who exhibited integrity and strength – special men and women who helped guide people and countries through difficult times.

June 24 is the feast day of one such man, John the Baptist. John was a cousin to Jesus of Nazareth and yet John, despite this important relationship, remained humble and kind. He lived a different lifestyle wearing plain clothes and eating plain food, teaching and baptizing – constantly helping others find peace and contentment.

He was a nonconformist, doing what he thought was right in spite of existing cultural norms. And he confronted other leaders when he though they were acting and living immorally and hurting others in the process. John was strict, tough and brave, but he was also kind, merciful and forgiving – especially to those who sought his help in creating a new life free from selfishness and pride. Plus, John was non-discriminating – anyone who wanted a life beyond their own self-interest was welcomed and baptized by him. 

When one chooses to lead others, what he is really doing is taking on the work of serving others like John did. We should keep his characteristics in mind when we decide who should lead us so that we can follow.