Recently, one of the most prolific prophetic voices went home to be with His Savior. Of course, I’m referring to David Wilkerson. When this happens, each generation will experience a transition of leadership: we’ll call it “The Changing of the Guard”.

“Moses, My servant is dead”; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.”

Like for the children of Israel under the new leadership of Joshua, there was the call to stand upon the shoulders of former leadership and move on toward their announced destiny.  Also, like the children of Israel, it is a sad day when one of God’s faithful sons/daughters exits the scene. The feeling of abandonment or sadness can persist. Perhaps, this is a form of grief for some. But we must not postpone the inevitable, meaning: we must move on toward our Land of Promise.

The changing of the guard can be a bit awkward. I mean, trying to step into the shoes of others is a challenge. Some feel like the new leader should be able to preach like and be as perfect as their predecessor.  How foolish this sounds, but it is a reality.

Beloved, Jesus is the standard; not the former cherished man /woman of God. We have to give some latitude for the new leader to find his/her way; make his/her own mistakes, etc. It is easy to forget the patience we once exhibited toward the former leader in the beginning days of his/her ministry.

With the recent passing of David Wilkerson, one of the greatest challenges facing our generation is to find not one, but many, who will “set the trumpet to their mouths” and exhibit the same passion, anguish and fervency. There is no need to idolize the former guard, but we can show respect, honor and appreciation for what God did through David Wilkerson (and others like him) by receiving this “passing of the baton” and let the prophetic voice be heard in the land.

While this week’s leadership blog is somewhat shorter than others, the message within it is one of the most important written to date. Let there be no lull; let there be no lack; let there be no hesitation in receiving the prophetic baton currently handed to us.

Remember: prophetic ministry can be lonely sometimes.  Also, remember: when the prophet weeps, the people laugh; when the prophet laughs, the people weep.  It will not be given to those searching to be great in the Kingdom of God, but, rather, it will be entrusted to those who faithfully serve in confident meekness and humble boldness. These two descriptive phrases sound almost oxymoronic, but they adequately describe the brand of leadership needed in Today’s Church. Selah!

Brother Bill