The church and the world have plenty of leaders — some good and many less than good. When we encounter good leaders, what the church and the world could use more of are enthusiastic followers. Are we willing to follow when good shepherds invite us to lay down in green pastures or rest beside still waters? Can we be led through the valley and sit to eat at the tables prepared for us? Do we really want cups that run over? Certainly, no human leader is perfect like Jesus our Good Shepherd is perfect, and yet, we call leaders to serve us with creativity, wisdom, imagination and love. What if we followed where they were trying to lead?

God of the Universe, you of all people know how hard it is for us to follow the leader. We crucified even your precious child and we crucify one another. Help us to do better. Bless all who serve in the church and in positions of power in the world. Give them hearts after your own heart that they would love and center the outcast, the poor, the powerless, and the stranger. Remind them of the power found in humility, sacrifice, hospitality, and generosity. Bless, as well, all those who follow. Invite us to pray unceasingly for our leaders and to encourage them in the good work they are called to do. Inspire us to speak con our leaders rather than about our leaders on the issues that make us concerned and unhappy. Show us how to foster healing and wholeness in our churches so that we may be faithful to your call to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. May it be so. Amen.