The True Strength of Leadership
A Meditation by Rev. Cameron Trimble
“The greatest among you shall be your servant.” (Matthew 23:11)
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In recent days, we’ve witnessed the fall of Syria and the end of Bashar al-Assad’s authoritarian regime, a stark reminder of the fragility of leadership built on oppression. “Strong Man” leadership is anything but strong. It thrives on fear, control, and compliance, stifling the very humanity it claims to protect. Leaders who rely on force and domination may hold power temporarily, but they do so at the cost of justice, freedom, and the common good.
Our great spiritual teachers have always offered us a better way. Jesus taught us that true leadership is rooted in love and service. He turned the world’s understanding of power upside down when He said, “The greatest among you shall be your servant.” His life demonstrated this truth as He washed the feet of His disciples, healed the broken, and laid down His life for others. True strength is not found in coercion but in care, not in domination but in humility.
The Buddha spoke similarly, saying, “A leader is best when people barely know (s)he exists. When his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: We did it ourselves.” This vision of leadership is one of guidance, empowerment, and shared purpose—not one that seeks to control but one that inspires collective flourishing.
Leadership grounded in love and care for the common good creates communities where people thrive, where justice prevails, and where the most vulnerable are protected. It rejects the false security of power wielded for personal gain and embraces the profound responsibility of serving others.
The mystic and poet Rumi captured this spirit when he wrote, “Raise your words, not your voice. It is rain that grows flowers, not thunder.” Strong Man leadership relies on thunder—on fear and intimidation—but true leadership is like rain, nurturing the growth of those it serves.
In moments like these, when the world feels heavy with the weight of authoritarianism, we must hold fast to the truth that there is another way. A way rooted in the love that spiritual leaders from every tradition have modeled for us. A way that calls us to resist oppression and to embody a leadership of care, justice, and humility in our own lives.
May we have the courage to reject the false promises of authoritarianism and embrace the radical power of love.
We are in this together,
Cameron
Reflection Questions
How do you see the difference between “Strong Man” leadership and leadership rooted in service and love?
Who in your life has modeled leadership that empowers and cares for others?
How can you practice servant leadership in your own community?
A Prayer for the Day
A Prayer for True Leadership
God of Justice,
You call us to lead with love, to serve with humility, and to act with courage.
Help us to resist the false power of domination
And to embrace the true strength of compassion and care.
Guide our leaders to serve the common good,
And empower us to be voices for justice and peace.
May our lives reflect Your way of love,
And may we work together to build a world where all people thrive.
Amen.
Spiritual Practice
Leading with Love
Take a moment to consider the spaces in your life where you have influence—whether it’s within your family, your workplace, or your community. These may not be formal leadership roles, but they are places where your actions and choices can shape the lives of others. Reflect on how you show up in those spaces. Are you leading with love, humility, and care? What would it look like to intentionally embody those qualities this week?
One powerful way to lead with love is through listening. Choose someone in your life to engage with intentionally this week. It could be a coworker, a family member, or a neighbor. Ask them about their experiences, their hopes, or their challenges, and truly listen—not to respond, but to understand. Leadership often begins with empathy, and taking the time to hear someone’s story can be a profound act of service.
Finally, think about one tangible act of servant leadership you can offer. Perhaps it’s mentoring someone who needs guidance, advocating for an issue that promotes justice, or showing kindness to someone who feels overlooked.
As you engage in these practices, reflect on how they shape your perspective on leadership. Notice the impact they have—not just on others, but on your own heart. Leading with love is not only a gift to those around us; it’s a way of aligning ourselves with the deeper, sacred truths of compassion, humility, and care. In these small, intentional acts, we become participants in the kind of leadership that nurtures and empowers, reflecting the divine way of love in the world.
Upcoming Events That Might Be of Interest…
January 12, 2025, 3-4:30pm ET - Join me for a FREE conversation on “Progressive Islam – Universal Values vs. the Politics of Human Rights – What’s the Difference Between a Progressive Muslim and Other Muslims?” with Ani Zonneveld. Register here.
February 6, 7-8pm ET - Join my conversation “Mindful Healing: Tools For Inner Balance and Wellbeing” with Rev. Dr. Isa Gucciardi. Register here.
July 20-25, 2025 - The Art of Wilding: A 5-Day Expedition in Wyoming for Women Leaders. Click here to learn more.
August 11, 2025, 2pm ET - Dr. Andrew Root and I will host a 6 part series on Spirituality in the Secular Age based on his research. The dates are August 11, 18, September 8, 15, and October 6, 13. Mark your calendars! More on this soon.
October 15-18, 2025 - Converging 2025: Sing Truth Conference (all musicians invited!) at Northwest Christian Church in Columbus, OH. Mark your calendars for now. More info is coming.
Recently, I drafted a Strategic Framework for Congregations as we move into the coming years of increased authoritarianism around the world. If interested, you can download it here.