I was talking with a friend (at another university) who had asked for some advice on handling a difficult situation with a client. He was going to deliver bad news and wanted my take on the backlash.

I advised him to make the phone call as soon as possible, be clear about the decision and be empathetic but firm.

He replied with a “oh… I’m not making the call. I’m making the decision. Someone else can make that call. It’s not my job.”

Leaders have multiple, competing responsibilities each day… and only have a finite amount of time to get things done. We have to focus on the big picture and moving the organization forward.

But we are also called to be servants. Leaders should be willing to participate in any facet of the organization’s mission. No task is too small for our attention. We- above everything else- are called to be the culture champions of our organizations. We don’t need to dwell in the minutia, but we need to be aware of the details that might need our attention.

And making a sensitive call to a long-term client might be the difference in your organization’s reputation.

It can also eliminate disconnectedness with your team, too. Teams want to see that their leader is invested in the organization… and in their work too.

Jesus wasn’t afraid to deal in the minutia.

He came to seek and save the lost, but he dealt with their basic needs too. Matthew 14:13-21. Mark 8:1-9.

He dealt with the outcasts. Mark 5:25-34 Luke 19:1-10

He exemplified culture. Jesus ignored socioeconomic barriers, challenged the thinking of the ruling class and loved the unlovable. And he didn’t do that from inside a comfortable temple or golden chariot.

I need to check myself. Am I passing up opportunities to show engagement and support of my team? Am I delegating to a point where I’m not in touch with my clients?

And am I illustrating an example of how Jesus built culture everyday?

My prayer this week is for awareness for opportunities to build culture. And show illustrate empathy when I can.

Please let me know how I can pray for you. God loves you and I do too.

Keith