BY DON DAVIDSON 

Queen Victoria was once asked about the difference between her two legendary Prime Ministers.  When with William Gladstone, she said, “I feel I am with one of the most important leaders of the world.”  But when with Benjamin Disraeli, it was the opposite.  “He makes me feel as if I am one of the most important people in the world.”

I’d say that’s good politics – deference before the monarch.  But it is also a trait welcomed by people of all positions, and it is an ability that really great people have in common.  They put the focus on others and try to bring out the very best in them.  A bit tired of the constant spotlight themselves, they let somebody else shine for a change.

I have been around a few “important” people over the years, and the ones that I have liked the most have been those who asked me questions about my life, for my thoughts on a particular issue of the day.  At first I am usually amazed at their interest, and then flattered by it.  When I walk away from the brief encounter, it is at several inches above the ground that I move.

Movie stars and other celebrities who refuse to sign autographs or who complain about fans who disturb their meals in restaurants may have forgotten who made them famous in the first place.  They are where they are because of those very people.  Best to give back a little attention.

All of us can practice the art until we have it down: trying to encourage instead of impress.  Walking slowly through a crowd, and not strutting.  Initiating conversations by asking people about their lives, interests, family and opinions – instead of just talking about ourselves all of the time.

That’s my challenge, and commitment, as I am getting started at a new church.  Learning hundreds of names and the uniqueness of each individual who is a part of my congregation.  Seeing potential, and saying it to them in a kind of “prophecy” that can transform lives.  Lingering just a moment to look someone in the eye (not over their shoulder for the next person, or more important person, in line), and to listen to them.  A sincere compliment to top it all off.

No one was more important than Jesus.  And He was a busy man, too.  He had only three years to complete His ministry and accomplish His purpose.  Still, the Bible tells us that He was never rushed. He always seemed to have time – for the religious and political leaders who wanted to engage Him in conversation, and for the lowest rung of society who merely desired to be in His presence.  If anything, Jesus lavished more attention on the needy and the outcast.  Children, who were considered unimportant and often a nuisance, were always welcomed in His arms.  One test of greatness, He said, was how you treat the littlest ones.

A seminary professor was giving his final exam, the last test before graduation.  The students had learned their Hebrew and Greek and crammed their history and theology.  Expecting complicated and extensive questioning, they were amazed to find only one question on the exam:  “What is the name of the custodian in your dormitory”.

There were groans all around.  The class was incredulous.  One outspoken student, the most intellectual of the class, protested.  “This is ridiculous”, he said.  

“Not at all,” replied the professor. “If after three years you have not bothered to learn the name of the minimum wage man who sweeps your floor and cleans your toilet – you are not fit to be the pastor of a church of God’s people.”

Or any kind of leader, really.

Everybody needs to feel important once in a while.  Yesterday was your day – today is someone else’s turn.

Don Davidson is Pastor of First Bapist Church in Alexandria.