I had the privilege of serving as the chaplain for one of the “farm teams” of the Milwaukee Brewers’ MLB organization. When discussing the development of talent and leadership, several terms can be used instead of “farm team.” But they all function to develop young players and prepare them for careers in the MLB. Developing potential players is essential to success. Most non-profits and businesses understand this. They may have other names, such as: “Leadership pipeline,” “Talent pool,” “Training academy,” “Mentor training,” “Succession planning,” or “Talent incubator.” They each share this in common: They ensure a continuous supply of capable people to fill roles within an organization, especially leadership positions. If the “non-believing” or “non-churched” community believes this, how about the church? How about you and me?
It’s interesting to note that Jesus Christ literally entrusted the future of Christianity to 12 people. It was not just a critical focus; it was His preeminent focus. You see Jesus’s emphasis on leadership through verses like Matthew 28:19-20, where He commands his followers to “make disciples of all nations,” and Mark 8:34, where He emphasizes the need to “deny oneself, take up one’s cross, and follow Him.” God’s outward mission of spreading the Gospel is tied to the inward transformation required for true discipleship. Jesus planned for “the 12” to carry on the mission after his death, burial, and resurrection. Who’s carrying on your mission? What is your succession plan? Who have you recruited to your “farm team?” If nobody is in your leadership pipeline, it’s time to get busy.