A boy courageously, but unsuccessfully, attempted to move a heavy log to clear a pathway on his hiking trail. His dad stood quietly nearby, watching his son straining against the load. Finally he said, “Son, why aren’t you using all of your strength?” Confused and disappointed, the boy responded, “Dad, I’m using every last little bit of strength I have!”
“No, son; you’re not,” his dad quietly responded. “You haven’t asked me to help.”
Effective leaders know to reach beyond themselves for strength. This holds true for effective and healthy organizations; they develop and build healthy strategic partnership both internally and externally.
Even our heavenly Father is the embodiment of a perfect partnership. In a truly mystifying way, there has always been perfect communion, perfect community, and perfect partnership within the divine Trinity. We also have a human example in the life of King David. At one of the lowest moment in his life, David still was intentional in forming relationships with diverse groups of people. When he escaped to the cave of Adullam, 400 men who were distressed, in debt and discontented gathered around him. From fighting on the battlefields to preparing the materials for the Temple, David possessed the foresight to know that he could not do it alone.
Before we engage in the routine in making 2017 New Year’s Resolutions, it is good to take a moment to review various partnership we have in our lives. As for Firstlight, I know your precious strategic partnership has makes a tremendous difference year after year. I have seen first-hand the impact on the lives of children in Thailand, the seminary students in Myanmar, Chinese believers and pastors, passionate worshippers in Pittsburgh and more. Everyone’s part and contribution counts for the Kingdom of God.
The world will be surely be brighter place as we connect, inspire, encourage and support each other in partnerships with purpose as we press toward the goal of our high calling in Christ Jesus!
~ YC Chen
