“On Leadership” (1 Corinthians 15:24-28; Luke 14:25-35) [Sun Tzu Series – Chapter 8: Title]

There’s aspects one must factor in
If leadership one would begin;
It’s not a concrete number, mind,
Far more ephemeral, I find.

As kings know well when there’s a scrap,
They hire a “General” for that;
It’s not they aren’t aware of art,
It’s more for flexi-factor part –

Which can’t be handled from a throne
By kings in beds on softest foam,
Because “Once true” will not suffice –
For things change fast with role of dice.

A “Field Commander” (any stripe),
Must handle that – sometimes he’s right,
But half the time he’s not, you see –
Not every fight sees victory.

“The best laid plans of mice and men”,
As dad would quote again, again,
Oft’ come to naught – so flexi-thought
Is put up front once gains are sought.

So yes, there’s principles in war,
But human thought which knows the score
Gives front-line flexibility,
As light of day one hopes to see.

If you are tasked with being one,
You’ll find the challenge less than fun –
It’s fifty-fifty at its best,
And then, “The cat gets all the rest”.

Take Jesus’ task, which Paul laid out
In ancient letter – there’s no doubt
His thought reflects his circumstance,
But Jesus’ thought it does enhance –

For Jesus said, “God wins in end;
That’s why I’m here – on God depend;
He is the winner, don’t you see?
We lose it all – but life will be –

“What’s gained for world gone wrong with sin;
So pick a side – once you’ve joined in,
It’s not a rigid, somber life,
But deepest joy midst darkest night.”

So Lord, as I consider next
His Chapter Eight of ancient text,
Help me stay open in this day
To insights You pour out our way.

Thanks Lord for this.

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