In 330 BC, Alexander the Great had conquered the Persian Empire and in the process had become ruler of most of the known world. With the greatest army ever assembled he decided to continue his push eastward. His vision was unrelenting. He wanted to rule the entire world.

But when they reached the Himalayan Mountains, his leaders came to Alexander with a serious concern. They had  gone beyond the boundaries of their maps. To go further would mean that they would march off the map. They were suddenly faced with two options. They could return to where they came from and stay within familiar territory, or they could bravely march …

God has shaped each of us …

IN TIMES OF CRISIS, LEADERS:

1. Stand up and take charge (They accept responsibility and have a war-time perspective)
2. Are not necessarily those in leadership positions with leadership titles
3. Define reality
4. Are humble and care for people
5. Are prepared to make sacrifices and pay a price
6. Walk by faith and not by sight
7. Lead by their convictions and not by their feelings
8. Know that God is sovereign and that the crisis has not taken Him by surprise
9. Have perspective and see the big picture
10. Know that God will bring good out of bad
11. Show moral courage in the face of fear
12. Are dealers in hope
13. Take necessary risks and

I was recently reminded by our Prime Minister that I am now old enough to be regarded as a protected species that needs to be shielded from the dangers of our society. He was addressing the issue of the current Corona virus pandemic and urged all Australians over 70 to stay at home to avoid any unnecessary risk of contracting the virus. I must admit that I had mixed feelings about his interest in my welfare.

Growing old has its challenges. But it also has its advantages as I discovered in my recent Bible journaling where I took time to follow the lifeline of the apostle Paul. In the …