Letting go is part of every leader’s journey. It is deeply personal long before it is public. For many, stepping out of the spotlight feels a lot like death. Leadership is stewardship for a season. It is not an entitlement for a lifetime. “Freely you received, freely give,” (Matthew 10:8 CSB) seems like a fitting reminder. 

We find out what kind of servants we are when someone treats us like one. Others find out what kind of leaders we are by how easily, or not, it is for us to let go of the levers of power. 

A friend I admire and respect called recently to say he is laying down his mantle. “Mantle,” a good word no longer in common use, means a position of authority. It was often marked by a cloak or shawl. Passing the mantle to another was a deeply meaningful practice both for the one letting go and for the one taking it up. Reflect on the story of Elijah and Elisha in 2 Kings 2. 

Another friend is preparing for his best next steps. He has been preparing himself, his family, his associates, and those he serves for several years. He is not only handing over the reins, he is also getting out of the way of his successor by moving a long way off. He is stepping into a new role that is just right for this season of life. 

Several other stories like these come to mind. Some are not so encouraging. 

Letting go was hard for Moses. See Deuteronomy 3:21-29 for more details. Moses did what Moses almost always did when he was convinced regarding what was next. He went to God in prayer. He asked God to give Israel a new leader. Joshua stepped into his role and “left nothing undone of all that the LORD commanded Moses,” (Joshua 11:15). 

God heard and answered Moses’ prayer. 

Whether we know our successor or not, we can prepare the way for him or her. The best thing we can do for this successor is to let go without being forced to do so. The next best thing we can do is to leave. The next next thing we can do is step into the role we have been preparing for over a course of years. Even in the afternoon and evening of our lives, we can live productively and effectively if we prepare well in advance. 

How are you preparing for what’s next? 

Let your current roles provide wind for your sails. Let your future roles draw you toward a special future like a bungee cord attached to your heart. Get good at transitions. Get good at the rhythms of release and embrace.

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I will finish well by preparing the way for those who come behind me and by getting out of their way as they step into their new roles.

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Our Father, show me the way to leave and when to go. Prepare me for what’s next. Empower me to do today those tasks that will make it easier for those who come behind me. Amen.