I was struck yesterday by Jesus’ description of John the Baptist:

After John’s messengers departed, Jesus spoke about John to the audience crowded around him, saying, “What kind of man did you expect to see out in the wilderness? Did you expect to see a man who would be easily influenced and shaken by the shifting opinions of others? Who did you really go there to see? Did you expect to see a man decked out in the splendid fashion of the day? They are the ones who live in the lap of luxury, embracing the values of this world. Or did you discover a true prophet out in the lonely wilderness? Yes, John was a legitimate prophet. Even more than that, he was the fulfillment of this Scripture: ‘See, I am sending my prophetic messenger who will go ahead of me and prepare hearts to receive me.’ Luke 7:24-27 (The Passion Translation)

I understand that John was a prophet, not a leader, but it’s hard not to contrast this description of John with that of political leaders today. What John wasn’t, many “leaders” are:

• Easily influenced and shaken by the shifting opinions of others
• Decked out in the splendid fashion of the day
• Living in the lap of luxury
• Embracing the values of this world

Downtown Beirut blew up because “leaders” failed to move 2,700 tons of ammonium nitrate, an explosive, from the downtown area, even though they had six years to do so. Where are leaders who can lead? Who know how to do something besides run for office? (I don’t want to get into a political discussion here – I’m talking about both parties in the U.S.)

It’s a matter for prayer:

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. (1 Timothy 2.1, 2, NIV)