The Colt – Leadership that Walks in Humility and Obedience
(Mark 11:1–11)
Seasonal Context and Series Introduction
As the mornings grow chilly and the long Autumn/Winter term stretches ahead, educational leaders can often feel the weight of responsibility pressing in. Routines become more demanding, energy can wane and the balance between vision and results more challenging as dips in both staff and student morale add further strain.
It is in such seasons that leadership requires reflection, patience, and discernment. This blog is the first in our “Turning Points” series, exploring bible passages that speak to moments of change, challenge and preparation. Just as the seasons shift, so too do the moments in leadership that shape outcomes for the long term.
The Turning Point: Jesus on the Colt
“As they approached Jerusalem and came to Bethpage and Bethany at the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two of his disciples, saying to them, ‘Go to the village ahead of you, and just as you enter it, you will find a colt tied there, which no one has ever ridden. Untie it and bring it here.’”
- Mark 11:1-2 (NIV)
Mark captures a pivotal moment in Jesus’ ministry: the triumphal entry into Jerusalem. Crowds gather, laying cloaks and branches on the road, crying:
“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” (Mark 11:9)
This is a turning point—a moment that challenges expectations. The people longed for a conquering king, yet the King of Peace chose humility, obedience, and trust in God’s plan – riding on a young donkey rather than an expected warhorse.
Leadership Lesson 1: Humility That Leads
In education, it can be tempting to measure leadership by visibility, speed, or accolades. Yet the colt reminds us that true influence is rooted in humility, service, and patience.
Jesus’ authority came not from spectacle, but from obedience and alignment with God’s purpose. Similarly, educational leaders are most effective when they lead quietly, strategically, and with integrity:
- Listening when others demand answers.
- Making steady decisions when pressure mounts
- Serving the team and students even when recognition is scarce.
“For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.”
— Mark 10:45
Leadership is not about being noticed; it is about moving the organisation forward in ways that align with long-term purpose.
Leadership Lesson 2: The Power of Obedience
“They went and found a colt outside in the street, tied at a doorway. As they untied it, some people standing there asked, ‘What are you doing, untying that colt?’ They answered as Jesus had told them to, and the people let them go.”
-Mark 11:4-6
Before any fanfare, there was quiet, faithful obedience. Two unnamed disciples followed a simple instruction, yet their action fulfilled prophecy and played a vital role in God’s plan.
In school leadership, the “colts” we are called to untie might not be headline-grabbing initiatives. They are often small, deliberate acts of obedience or integrity:
- Sending a timely encouragement to a colleague
- Following through on difficult conversations
- Ensuring fairness and justice in systems that are taken for granted.
“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.” - Luke 16:10
These small acts accumulate into long-term transformation, shaping both people and culture.
Reflection Questions for Leaders
- Where might humility be my greatest act of influence this term?
- What “colts”- unnoticed responsibilities or relationships - is God asking me to untie and release?
- How can I model peace in a system driven by pressure and urgency?
As autumn deepens and the term stretches ahead, remember:
The King of Kings chose the slow road into Jerusalem,
and it changed history.
Your steady, faithful leadership can do the same.
A Prayer for Leaders
Lord Jesus, teach me the way of humble leadership.
When the world shouts for speed and success, help me to walk at Your pace - patient, gentle, and obedient.
Give me grace to serve without spotlight, and the strength to carry others toward Your peace.
Amen.
Turning Points in Leadership Recruitment
Just as Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem marked a turning point in His ministry, appointing the right school leader can be a turning point for your school, MAT or Diocese. A single appointment can shape the culture, vision, and long-term success of the whole school community
At Emmaus Leadership, we specialise in helping Church Schools, Dioceses and Christian MATs navigate these pivotal moments. We understand that recruiting SLT Leaders is about more than filling a vacancy - it’s about discerning the right leader who can guide your school, MAT or Diocese as it moves forward with confidence.
We work closely with Governors and Trustees to:
- Understand the unique story and needs of your organisation.
- Reach both active and passive candidates through targeted campaigns.
- Ensure a strong, high-quality field of potential leaders so you can shortlist and appoint with confidence.
- Support candidates and stakeholders throughout the process with care, clarity, and integrity
A leadership appointment is a chance to set a new course, strengthen vision, and inspire staff and students. Like the colt that carried Jesus into Jerusalem, the right leader carries your organisation toward its God-given potential.
Discover how Emmaus Leadership can support your next leadership turning point at www.emmausleadership.me