Global Lessons on Faith and Leadership
My first global(x) journey took me to Mérida, Yucatán, a beautiful city in Mexico that would forever change how I viewed my faith and the impact of great leadership. As a resident in the North Point Residency Program and a seminary student, I'm constantly surrounded by ministry work. This global(x) journey was an extension of that, a chance to see my faith in action across the globe.
A Global Connection
Faith is central to who I am, so witnessing the same faith I hold dear reflected in another part of the world was incredibly comforting. It’s astounding to realize how big God is and how far-reaching faith can be. In Mérida, I saw that the beliefs I hold, the prayers I say, the ways we worship, and the Sunday services I attend mirrored in the lives of people thousands of miles away.
The Universal Language of Faith
Despite the language barrier, our faith was a universal language that connected us. It wasn’t our words that bridged the gap but our shared belief. That connection transcended spoken language and underscored a deeper, spiritual unity that resonated deeply with me.
Learning From Exemplary Leaders
Being part of the North Point Residency Program has allowed me to learn from great leaders and be immersed in a culture that values leadership. During my time in Mérida, I saw this same level of leadership in action. Gabby, the founder and leader of Sowing a Vision, our global(x) partner, stood out as a phenomenal example. He led his community and organization with intentionality, building strong relationships with many of the local churches and his construction crew. His dedication and skillful leadership were inspiring, showing me that effective leadership principles are universal, even in a different environment.
The Power of Shared Beliefs
Overall, I was profoundly encouraged by seeing faith expressed by a different group of people in a different context. Mérida’s context—its culture, needs, and environment—differed from mine, yet the essence of faith and leadership remained the same. The community and the church both need strong leadership. Seeing that in Mérida affirmed my belief in the importance of developing and nurturing leadership skills. My big takeaway was realizing that while our contexts may differ, the core principles of faith and leadership are universal. This trip not only broadened my perspective but also strengthened my resolve to grow as a leader in my community.