Spiritual Leadership: Authority or Servanthood?

I'm reading an awesome book right now entitled "The Making of a Leader" by Frank Damazio. The book lays out the Biblical leadership principles that are needed within the church of today. In it, he makes this statement: "Some people in the church live all thier lives waiting for an angelic visitation that will put them in some profound globe-trotting apostolic minsitry" (pg. 40). As we begin this journey together, I think it is important to understand what a Spiritual Leader actually is. For many, the journey to leadership is a power trip, a means and hopes to gain authority. The "leaders" within many local churches, including many of the pastors, find themselves thriving off of a need and desire for power and control. "As a leader, I can make the changes and do the things that I want", many think and say. For others, the rise to leadership is more of a "famed" approach. Many long to be famous and well-known for what they do, for their accomplishments and leadership. Within the church, each leadership role is used as a stepping stone to a higher, more prestegious position. I've heard a number of associate ministers and youth pastors make the following statement: "I don't want to do this forever. One day, I want to be a pastor". Now let me add, being a pastor is great, and for many ministers, this is their calling. But is Spiritual leadership defined by authority, power, or prestige? I believe the best Spiritual leader is one, not marked by authority, but by a heart and passion to love the Lord, and to love others: "If you want to be great in God's Kingdom, learn to be a servant of all". After all, what should be desired more, to be a leader in the church or to be a servant of Christ. Therefore, the underlining ministry of a Spiritual Leader within the church, is that of a humble servant. A pastor is called to humbly serve those the Lord has entrusted him to shepherd. A Sunday School teacher should be there to serve his/her class, and help meet their spiritual needs. A deacon, to help as a servant for the pastor and church members. You see, all spiritual leaders are to be servants, with a servant's heart, a servant's desire, and a servant's humility. That's why we roll up our sleeves and clean up messes in the church, or volunteer to help in the nursery. That's why we call or visit members when they are sick, lonely or hurting. That's why we pray for our pastors, teachers, and members. It's because the Lord has called us to be servants, His servants to His people.