Cross Cultural

Last night I began a course on Ethical Values and Principles in Strategic Leadership. I am grateful for every opportunity that I have had to teach outside of the U.S. When I teach I pay particular attention to the aspects of leadership that resonate. Are there issues that are common to leadership across cultural lines? How can these aspects open the door for the message of the Gospel? I began a series of lectures last night by drawing attention to the importance of leading from within. Unfortunately, a great deal of leadership development seems to focus on skills and behaviors without giving attention to the heart. I take it as a personal mission to tip the balance toward issues of the heart. This message did in fact resonate with the Ecuadorian leaders. They engaged in a vibrant discussion of some of the foundational questions about integrity and intentionality. Though this was a course at a "secular" University, I was able to describe leadership relationships in Biblical terms. I shared that my Christian faith has revealed some significant principles for accountable leadership. I was able to teach the importance of "speaking the truth in love" and share what it means to bring together diverse gifts and talents, yet unite them together as "members of a body". I am thankful for the many ways God gives us to be "salt and light".