December is here, and with it comes the season of Advent—a time marked by anticipation and preparation for the celebration of Christ’s birth. For Christians, Advent is a reminder that God is faithful, even in times of great uncertainty and waiting. And this year, let’s be honest, feels like it’s full of both.
Our nation is in the middle of a major transition. A change in administration always brings new opportunities and challenges, and this one is no exception. The political climate is intense, and tensions are running high. Many of us feel hopeful about the future, while others are anxious or even angry. It’s a time when the fractures in our society are more visible than ever. But here’s the question for us as leaders: how do we navigate this season of change with faith and purpose?
The story of Mary in the Gospel of Luke offers a powerful example. Imagine being a young woman, barely old enough to understand the complexities of life, and suddenly being told you would bear the Son of God. Mary’s world was turned upside down in an instant. But her response in Luke 1:38 was one of humble faith:
Mary responded, “I am the Lord’s servant. May everything you have said about me come true.”
Despite her fear and uncertainty, she trusted God’s plan.
As we face a changing world, we’re invited to take on that same posture of faith. We may not understand everything that’s happening, but we can choose to trust in a purpose greater than ourselves. We can lean into the truth that God is at work, even when our circumstances feel chaotic.
But let’s not sugarcoat this: leading in a season of transition is hard. Our communities are divided, our economy is fragile, and people are desperate for strong, principled leadership. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, and even easier to stay quiet and let someone else take the reins. Yet now is the time for bold, faith-filled leaders to rise up and serve with courage.
The Apostle Paul gives us some timely wisdom in Ephesians 4:2-3:
Always be humble and gentle. Be patient with each other, making allowance for each other’s faults because of your love. Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace.
Humility, gentleness, patience, and love—these aren’t just nice words to put on a Christmas card. They’re the building blocks of true, godly leadership, especially in times of conflict and transition.
As conservative, Christian leaders, we have a unique opportunity to set the tone. We can be voices of reason and reconciliation. That doesn’t mean we compromise our values. Far from it. It means we hold fast to truth, while also making every effort to promote unity where possible. It means having the wisdom to know when to speak and when to listen, when to act and when to pray.
The recent election season laid bare the divisions within our country, but it also gave us a chance to reflect on what matters most. Are we going to be leaders who sow more division, or will we work to bring people together in meaningful ways? Are we willing to engage in the hard work of healing, even if it means stepping out of our comfort zones?
This Advent season, as we prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, let’s also prepare our hearts to lead well in a world that desperately needs hope. Let’s commit to being leaders who serve, not just when it’s convenient or easy, but especially when it’s difficult. Like Mary, let’s be willing to say, “I am the Lord’s servant,” even when the path ahead is unclear.
The beauty of Advent is that it reminds us: light is coming. Jesus, the Light of the World, broke through the darkness, and that same light can guide us today. We may not know what the next year will bring, but we do know this—God is faithful, and He is still in control.
As you step into this season of change, I challenge you to lead with renewed faith, a heart for unity and justice (yes, they can live in the same space), and a willingness to serve. God is writing a bigger story, and He’s inviting each of us to play a part. Let’s answer that call with courage and hope.
And let’s be bold!
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