We Need Leaders

Why should we be intentional when we seek out leaders in our work? Why should we pray, give time, or ask hard questions as we think about those that might pick up the mantle of leadership?

We typically label leaders based on who wears the captain’s hat. Who is in charge? The answer to this question, in terms of determining our leaders, is, I would argue, a poor litmus test. A better litmus test, especially given our current cultural state, is to grade or determine our leaders by their record in times of crisis. I make this recommendation because I believe that good leaders prove or show themselves during these moments. This is true in all areas of life and society as we have witnessed this in our homes, in our workplaces, in our governments, and in our communities.

Why, though, does this litmus test matter to us as leaders in the pregnancy center movement? Why should we be intentional when we seek out leaders in our work? Why should we pray, give time, or ask hard questions as we think about those that might pick up the mantle of leadership? I understand that the answer to these questions can vary, but I believe a single answer can suffice. We need to be intentional, pray, give time, and ask the hard questions because our culture and society is in a time of crisis. This crisis rears its head daily as abortion is celebrated, anti-life legislation permeates governments, and our work, the work of the pregnancy center, is under attack. This is why I believe that our current climate calls for leaders, not bosses. 

As we navigate our work in the pregnancy center movement, we must realize where our culture sits and where our culture, apart from a revival, is headed. It is clear to me that the direction our society is headed points to a great need for bold and effective leadership in our centers, in our homes, and in our communities. We can either sit back and cry, the sky is falling, or, we can step up and provide effective leadership. Effective leadership in our work is instrumental if we hope to move our centers in the right direction. We are not operating or serving during peacetime. Instead, our reality is clear to anyone willing to open their eyes as there are those that wish to see our organizations be less effective, get caught on our heels, or simply close our doors.

This is a heavy topic, but it is a topic worth visiting as we operate and serve in a post-Roe United States. Our state laws, our contexts, and our budgets might look different, but the needs of our patients, communities, and neighbors are very much the same. There is a thirst for strong leadership and authenticity today. There is a void looking to be filled and this void, especially in times of crisis, must be filled with Truth and leaders that are willing to boldly stand, humbly lead, and graciously serve. 

I have been blessed to have a front-row seat to witness the leaders in the pregnancy center movement answer the call when times are tough. It is truly an honor to call many of you my friends and all of you my co-laborers. I do not write this today to discourage. Instead, I pray that this might encourage, reignite, and motivate you to pick up the mantle of leadership in front of you and step out in faith as you lead your organizations, communities, and patients in truth and love. You were placed in this position for a purpose. Embrace that calling and lead well.