Golf, Expectations, and Leadership

In my world, having fun playing golf is all about managing my expectations. This past weekend I was out on the golf course and apparently my expectations were really low because I was having fun. But walking between shots I was thinking back over my week and I realized I had made a leadership mistake regarding expectations. 

John and I are leading a small group this summer. We had a great time at our first gathering on Thursday. We had dinner together, asked questions to get to know folks, watched the video, looked at some Scripture, had a good discussion, talked about a serving opportunity . . . We did a lot of “right things,” but I realized we left something out. We never asked our new friends what their expectations were for our group. We didn’t ask, “What are you hoping for? What are you looking to find this summer in this group? What are you asking Jesus to do in your life?” One of my weaknesses as a leader is to map out a plan and then just barge ahead, checking things off a “to do” list instead of carefully listening to others around me, adjusting my plans to their realities and hopes. What about you? Several times in Scripture we see Jesus asking someone, “What do you want me to do for you?” (see Mark 10:46-52). He took the time to ask. And listen! So, what are your hopes for this summer? What are the hopes and expectations of those you lead? Have you asked? For those of you leading groups, what have you learned this week?

Laura Crosby serves as the Director of Spiritual Formation at The Table

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