Who, Me? I Can't Be a Leader! by Judy Wiedenkeller Excuses, excuses! We all have them. We all use them. Moses had a long list of excuses when God called him to lead the captive children of Israel. In a rough paraphrase, Moses said, "Remember, God, I tried defending your people before, but I got into trouble for my effort and they didn't appreciate it. My palace manners are long forgotten. I've been doing servant jobs, tending sheep and trying to survive in a desert. I'm old and have family responsibilities. And if that isn't reason enough, I can't talk well; I have a speech problem." No, Moses did not step into his role as leader eagerly or quickly, despite the spectacular burning bush and God's miraculous power. He didn't even want to consider the job. Exodus 4:13 condenses his response for us: And Moses said, "O Lord, please send someone else to do it." His excuses have a familiar sound. We've all used them. Our lists might include: I've spent my time serving on committees. They didn't appreciate all my work. I don't feel comfortable getting up in front of groups. My knowledge is limited. Others have better ideas. My responsibilities are many. I am much too old. It's important to note that all of Moses excuses were real. He did not imagine them. Thank God, the story of Moses is not about his excuses; it's about what the mighty God, Jehovah, could do through him. Just as God had plans for Moses, so God has plans for our lives. He desires to use us, despite our excuses. God does not care about our excuses, real or imagined. He knows them. He wants to overcome them. My grace is sufficient for you, He reassured St. Paul and He reassures us, for my power is made perfect in weakness. Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me (2 Corinthians 12:9). What a powerful reminder! Our imperfections showcase God's abilities. It isn't about us; it is about what He can and will accomplish through us by His Holy Spirit. We never know when God may speak from the neighborhood burning bush. Like Moses, we may be tempted to say, "Let someone else lead, Lord. I'll just follow along." Seeing ourselves in a leadership role may be difficult. Just thinking about it may make us uncomfortable. Could it be that the Lord is speaking to your heart right now? Could He be calling you? Joan, Mary, Miriam, Jo Ann! Take off your shoes. I have a job for you, only you, to do. You follow Me and then others will follow your Leader. Dear Lord, give us faith and courage to respond when you call us to lead and to serve. Help us put aside our excuses and say with young Samuel, "Speak, Lord. Your servant is listening."