How To Influence Greater “Herd Humility”

Last weekend I attended a workshop presented by Rev. Dr. Darrell Zimmerman of Grace Place Wellness. He shared the story of a conversation in which one woman meant to say, “herd immunity” and instead said “herd humility.” What a concept as it relates to vocation!

I ascribe humility to servant leadership which can also be referred to as transformational leadership. In fact, one of the core values of Innovative Leadership Solutions, is serve to lead and lead to serve. The paragraph below elaborates on this value.

We believe everyone is called to both lead and serve in unique and diverse ways. This involves both giving and receiving motivated by a heart for service, genuine care for others, and fulfilling a greater purpose. These leaders bring out the best in others! We champion with you and for you in growing your leadership capacities so that your influence transforms the lives of others and leaves a legacy of stewardship and service.

It’s other-serving rather than self-serving. It’s about serving a purpose that is greater than ourselves. The result? Transformational leadership and not transactional leadership. The first type of leadership involves a heart for others whereas the second type of leadership uses others as a means to an end. In terms of legacy, which type of leadership lives on? Transformational, of course.

Imagine the kind of transformational impact on the billions of people all over the world with greater “herd humility.” Imagine leaders bringing out the best in others. Imagine colleagues collaborating with one another for the sake of the mission. Imagine people relating to one another out of genuine care and concern for others. The reality is that we are called to lead and serve accordingly.

Who can be credited with the start of “herd humility?” The Sunday School answer…Jesus! Jesus was the Son of God, a King. If anyone had the right to be served, it was Him. However, He humbled Himself to become man and live among us. Everything that He did, was serving the will of His Father for the present needs and eternal spiritual benefit of others. He paid the ultimate sacrifice for our sins, though He was without sin, by dying on the cross and rising in victory. As a result, through Him, all who believe may have eternal life.

Throughout His life, Jesus demonstrated the posture of humility in service to God and for His purposes. Specifically in John 13, Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and in doing so, encouraged this same posture of humility in service to God and for His purposes. Hence, the start of “herd humility” began to spread and world has never been the same since! Yet, there is still more serving to be done!

What can you do to stay grounded in the posture of humility and influence greater “herd humility?” Rev. Dr. Zimmerman showed us a picture of a “sheep-herd.” You are called in your vocation to serve as a “shepherd,” to lead, serve, and care for others. At the same time, Jesus is The Good Shepherd, and you are one of His sheep nestled ever so gently in His arms. Psalm 23 beautifully describes God’s great love and care for you! You can find rest and restoration in God.

And, influencing greater “herd humility” is really about spreading JOY because true JOY is of God!

In order to spread JOY, you must first receive JOY in your life!

  • Reach out to Jesus and let Him care for you and give yourself permission to care for yourself so that you can better serve and lead others.

  • Connect with others daily in mutually beneficial ways to meet each other’s relational needs.

  • Abide in Him daily to ground yourself in the posture of humility in service to God and for His purposes.

  • Thank and praise God for the blessings in your life.

Now, go and influence greater “herd humility!”