Lead with Diligence:  Take Off Your Shoes

In the journey of leadership, there are moments that define our path and shape our character. One such moment is found in the Book of Exodus, where God tells Moses to take off his shoes because he is standing on holy ground. This profound encounter offers timeless lessons for leaders who want to become a leader people want to follow.

A Divine Encounter

Moses, tending his father-in-law's flock, leads them to Horeb, the mountain of God. There, he encounters a burning bush that is not consumed by the flames. As he approaches, God calls out to him, "Do not come any closer. Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy ground" (Exodus 3:5)

The Power of Attention

Before God speaks, Moses makes a crucial decision. A major Shift.  He says, "I will turn aside and see this great sight, why the bush is not burned" (Exodus 3:3). This act of turning aside from his daily responsibilities to focus on the extraordinary is a pivotal moment. For leaders, this teaches the importance of being attentive and responsive to the significant moments that can shape our leadership journey.

The Significance of Removing Shoes

In ancient cultures, removing your shoes was a sign of respect and humility. It was an acknowledgment of entering a sacred space. For Moses, this act was not just about physical cleanliness but about preparing his heart and mind to receive God's message. As leaders, we can draw three key lessons from this moment:

1. Reverence and Respect

By asking Moses to remove his sandals, God was teaching him the importance of reverence. Leaders must approach their roles with a deep sense of respect for the responsibility they carry. This reverence is not just for the position but for the people they lead and the mission they serve. A leader who respects their team and their purpose will naturally earn the respect of others.

2. Humility and Self-Awareness

Removing his sandals was an act of humility for Moses. It was a recognition that he was in the presence of something greater than himself. Leaders who exhibit humility are aware of their strengths and weaknesses. They are open to feedback and willing to learn from others. This humility fosters trust and loyalty among followers, as they see a leader who is genuine and approachable.

3. Creating Sacred Spaces

The ground Moses stood on was made holy by God's presence. Leaders can create "holy ground" in their organizations by fostering an environment where values and principles are upheld. This involves setting clear expectations, leading by example, and ensuring that every team member feels valued and heard. When leaders create such spaces, they inspire others to bring their best selves to work.

Application

To embody these lessons in your leadership journey, consider the following practical steps:

• Cultivate Reverence: Start your day with a moment of reflection and prayer, acknowledging the significance of your role and the impact you can have on others.
• Practice Humility: Regularly seek feedback from your team and be open to constructive criticism. Show appreciation for their contributions and recognize that leadership is a continuous learning process.
• Build Sacred Spaces: Foster a culture of respect, integrity, and inclusivity. Create opportunities for open dialogue and ensure that every team member feels their voice is heard and is challenged to create their own sacred space with God.

Leading with Purpose

The story of Moses and the burning bush reminds us that true leadership is not about power or authority but about serving with humility and reverence. By taking off his sandals, Moses demonstrated his readiness to listen and learn from God. As leaders, we too must be willing to remove our "sandals"—our egos, distractions, and preconceived notions—to lead with a heart of service.

Let us strive to be leaders others want to follow, not because of our titles, but because of our character and the sacred spaces we create. In doing so, we will inspire others to do the same.