Today is National Boss’ Day. I’ve had my fair share of bosses through the years. Some have been great, some have been, well, not so great.

My first boss was my Dad. I was blessed to work for the church as his secretary for about two years in high school. One thing I recall is that I could sign his name perfectly. I will admit, however, that I never used that on anything other than letters I sent out for him.

I recall a boss who hated rice because it reminded him of his childhood. Another boss loved lime green and purple. One kind-hearted boss suggested that I place a bowl of candy on my desk to attract friends. One whose spiritual wisdom helped me pointed me to Jesus each day. Another whose smile warmed my heart as much as the coffee we sipped between jobs. And yet another who sat staunchly behind a large desk and barked out orders.

Funny some of the things that came to mind as I thought of my bosses through the years. Each with their different styles and yet, they had a role. To be a leader.

I must say that I am currently blessed with a fabulous boss. He is kind-hearted, fun-loving, and spirit-filled. It’s no wonder he fills the role he does today.

Forbes Magazine shared a few key points about leadership. This is their list. Great leaders: provide inspiration; teach and learn; are bold; are humble; listen to people; strike a balance; and tackle challenges.[i] Yes, I would say they have a good list here.

As I look at this list, I would say Jesus knew exactly how to be a great leader. Jesus definitely provided inspiration (Matthew 16:13-20; Matthew 22:34-40; Matthew 28:19-20). Jesus was the best teacher (Matthew 5, 6 and 7). Jesus was bold (Matthew 21:12-13). Jesus was humble (Matthew 11:25-30). Jesus listened to people (Matthew 19:13-15; Matthew 20:29-34). Jesus was able to strike a balance (Matthew 14:13-21; Matthew 26:6-13). And Jesus tackled challenges (Matthew 8:23-27).

As a great leader, Jesus asks us to follow Him. To go where He leads. To do as He asks. Perhaps one quality missed in the list above is that a great leader leads by example. Jesus does not ask us to do anything that He wasn’t willing to do Himself. We have His example to follow.

I believe each of us should ask ourselves if we are following Jesus’ example. And maybe we need to ask ourselves a few more questions.

Am I an “all in” follower of Jesus?

Do I pick and choose the areas I want to follow Jesus’ example?

Who is the boss of my life? Jesus or me?

National Boss’ Day is the perfect day to make a deeper commitment to Jesus and allow Him to have full Lordship and Kingship of our lives. Today as you acknowledge the boss in your working world, I pray that you will take the time to acknowledge Jesus as the boss of your life.

Grace and peace be yours in abundance,

Donna

[i] http://www.forbes.com/sites/ilyapozin/2014/04/10/16-leadership-quotes-to-inspire-you-to-greatness/