The Servant Leader

 

Introduction

The grit of Kandahar coated everything – his skin, equipment, the makeshift command post, even the tattered PinUp calendar hanging on the wall. Three weeks. Three weeks Major Jackson, commander of Task Force Phoenix’s 3rd Special Operations Detachment, now back from war and haunted by the faces of the boys he’d sent into harm's way – young men now stained crimson and etched with fear. Orders were clear: maintain order, secure the perimeter, eliminate threats. He fought to minimize casualties and each loss chipped away at his faith—a foundation built on compassion, justice, and the inherent worth of every life. Gripped by a storm fueled by an insidious whisper – Are you truly serving God, or simply serving power – he knew he needed Chaplain Sammy’s counsel.

Major Jackson's haunted gaze reflects a profound struggle—a battle against doubt and responsibility mirroring countless experiences across time and cultures. His story is just one poignant example of what can be termed ‘spiritual oppression’: the subtle, often insidious influence that seeks to distort our inner compass, erode our self-belief, and ultimately, control our choices. It’s a phenomenon manifested in myriad forms – from internalized negative beliefs passed down through generations to manipulative forces seeking to exploit vulnerability.

The Vulnerability of Leadership

Throughout history, leaders have faced immense challenges in maintaining their integrity. The temptation to prioritize comfort, security, or even perceived ‘success’ over genuine service can be a powerful force. We recognize that true leadership isn't simply about wielding power; it’s about embodying virtues – respect, courage, honor – qualities often tested by external pressures and internal doubts.  It’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters when the weight of expectation feels overwhelming.

Introducing ‘Faith In Action’

This collection of sermons, drawn from the experiences of a military chaplain, offers practical guidance for anyone seeking to lead with faith in their daily lives. Through compelling stories of Noah, Nehemiah, Joshua, and Paul – figures who demonstrated unwavering courage and selfless service – the author reveals timeless leadership principles that transcend time and culture. ‘Faith In Action’ isn't just about admiring these heroes; it’s about applying their wisdom to your own life. The book provides actionable strategies for fostering respect, cultivating courage, and inspiring meaningful impact.  It’s a reminder that true strength lies not in dominance, but in vulnerability and genuine connection.

Faith-Based Leadership: A Timeless Pursuit

The author meticulously crafts these sermons, drawing on the core tenets of servant leadership – listening deeply to understand, empowering others to thrive, prioritizing needs above one's own. These are principles that resonate across cultures and generations, offering a powerful antidote to those who seek to control through fear or manipulation.

Conclusion

We invite you to join us in exploring these timeless truths. What does it mean to ‘take action’ with faith in your own life? Discover Faith In Action, written by former Army Chaplain Reverend Sammy Wade, and begin your journey toward courageous leadership. (Link: https://amzn.to/4oF654B)

This powerful work is introduced by retired Lieutenant General John Van Alstyne, whose foreword honors the enduring legacy of faith, service, and principled leadership. His words set the tone for a message that transcends rank and speaks to the heart of every reader.

At Abolitic, we remain committed to weaving stories that ignite change—stories that empower us all to build a more just and compassionate world.

About the Author

Daryl Horton is a technical and creative writer who is passionate about being creative. He has comprehensive training in business information management, information systems management, and creative and technical writing. Daryl has the knowledge and skills to help organizations optimize their performance and maximize their potential. He spent several years in a Knowledge Management PhD program at Walden University, nearly completing it, but resigned from the program during his dissertation phase to pursue his passion for creativity (http://www.abolitic.com/). Despite his love for creativity, he often finds himself participating in groups where his technical experiences add value.

You can find more information about Daryl Horton on his LinkedIn page at https://www.linkedin.com/in/darylhorton/.