The Second Monday in Advent

The Kind of Leader God Wants

When kids misbehave, we often consider their parents. When nations act unjustly, we look to their politicians. And when God’s people disobey, we look at their clergy—and sometimes even at God himself. It may not be fair to do so. But sometimes it is. And it certainly was in the case of the spiritual leaders in Malachi’s day, as described in Malachi 2.

 Teaching truth and walking in integrity can be lonely tasks at times, which is why some spiritual leaders give in to the temptation to sacrifice both. If your leaders do demonstrate the praiseworthy qualities described by Malachi, how can you show your appreciation and encourage them in this Advent season? If you influence others, from siblings to employees to schoolmates to family members to coworkers, in what ways do you need to grow in integrity, in doing what is right? —Sandra Glahn

Prayer:  

O Lord, stir up my heart that I may prepare for your only begotten Son, that through his coming I may be worthy to serve you with pure hands and clean hearts. 

He will come again in glory

to judge the living and the dead

And his kingdom will have no end.

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