4.2.1

provide a 150 word to the below discussion question answer in apa format with in-text citations and references

Answer:

Servant leadership bears a religious connotation to me, and when I think about a biblical figure who exemplifies servant leadership, Moses comes to mind.  According to Russell (2002) servant leadership is not weak leadership but demonstrates strength, and Moses leadership is a classic example of servant -leadership.  “…Moses saw God at the top. But he placed himself as leader-under the people-at the very bottom. He realized that the whole reason for his being was people…He was open to counsel and allowed leaders to do their jobs” (Russell, 2002, para. 2). Moses placed his safety at risk for the sake of the Israelites by approaching the fearsome pharaoh, articulating Gods demand that the Israelites should be set free to go to the Promised Land.  At the Red Sea, he exemplified courage, hope, dedication, and perseverance, as he led the people of Israel across. As a leader he listened to complaints, fears, and doubts, from his people and reassured them.

The contemporary leader I have chosen is Lee Iacocca. By 1978, Chrysler announced a $160 million quarterly loss, was awfully managed, deficient of organizational discipline and structure (Leadership, 2013). It was at this time that Lee Iacocca joined the organization, and started by visiting every Chrysler plant, listening and talking to employees and devising a rescue plan. “Never asking of others anything he wasn’t prepared to accept himself: hard work, commitment and for himself a salary of one dollar a year” (Leadership, 2013, para. 1). Because of this inspiration by Iacocca in terms of honesty, common sense, conviction and passion, the employees were  able to accept losses in wages and benefits to achieve a dramatic recovery (Leadership, 2013).  The saving of this company that was at the brink of bankruptcy contributed immensely to the American economy by helping to retain employment for thousands of people (Leadership, 2013).

Just as Moses exemplified servant leadership by saving and leading the Israelites to freedom, Iacocca did the same by saving the company, and in the process ensuring that thousands of workers were able to take care of themselves and their families. The principle of servant leadership can be applicable regardless of time and place, because servant leadership is not based on credentials but on character (Russell, 2002).

Original Question:Conduct research about a biblical figure such as Moses, David, Paul, Joseph, Esther, or Nehemiah to learn about how the biblical leader exemplified servant leadership and see how the principles of servant leadership transcend time and place. Think about the contemporary leader you are researching for the Topic 4 assignment, and discuss the similarities you see between the biblical servant leader and the contemporary servant leader. Provide specific examples to illustrate the similarities you have identified and include discussion about what you think makes the principles of servant leadership applicable regardless of time or place