Take a Lap

This time of year continues to underscore the fact that people are looking for leaders. Political commercials tell us who will be a good leader and who won't. But I don't think people are looking so much for the perfect leader, but one who will at least be honest and genuine. Look at NFL quarterback Brett Favre for a case in point.

The Associated Press recently reported that future hall-of-fame, NFL quarterback Brett Favre was cheered in practice last week. That's not surprising. Unless you consider that he was cheered for fumbling the football.

Well, it wasn't exactly for fumbling the ball, but for what occurred after the mistake. Brett Favre - who holds NFL records for touchdown passes (442), completions (5,377), attempts (8,758), yards (61,655), and most wins as a starting quarterback (160) – ran a lap. He took a penalty lap around the field, just like everyone else does, for fumbling the football. The cheers showed that his willingness to admit his mistake and pay the consequences like everyone else – regardless of his past immortal achievements on the football field - immediately earned him the respect of his new teammates and the fans of the New York Jets.

The drop was understandable and could have been overlooked. Favre was only in his second practice with his new team. The miscue came on a snap from the center. It takes a while for players to adjust to one another. But there were no excuses. The NFL's only 3-time Associated Press MVP took his lap.

Leaders that aren't perfect, but that are genuine, can admit their mistakes, and lead even through consequences, are I'm looking for. I also think that's what people should look for and expect from their church leaders. No one and no church is perfect. There was only one man who ever was perfect – and they crucified Him! But leaders that are genuine are always appreciated.

Let people who are genuine leaders in your life know you appreciate them today.