Lead Like a Servant
13 February, 2015
Racine, the fifth largest city in Wisconsin, is my all-time, hands-down favorite place in all the world. Quaintly nestled between Milwaukee and Chicago, Racine is known as the Pearl of the Great Lakes, boasting a world-class harbor, delicious cuisine, and incredibly friendly people.
Born and raised, I enjoyed my upringing boating on Lake Michigan, hiking through Armstrong Park, and sledding down Lockwood Hill. Memories of riding floats in the 4th of July Parade, overdoing it on Pancake Day, dancing at the Worlds Best Prom, strolling through downtown's First Friday's, and competing in the Lighthouse Run flood my mind. Having traveled and lived in Europe, New York, Los Angeles, and Central America throughout my college career, my heart has never left my hometown gem.
The mayor of Racine, John Dickert, is a role model of mine. Having chatted with him at a recent charity for the city police force, he explained his deep desire to please the Lord through his leadership skills. Knowing that the press can sometimes be judgemental about his decisions, he generally chooses to refrain from reading the morning newspaper, knowing that Jesus is the only one he ultimately needs to please.
Dickert leads the community with vigor and confidence, yet at the same time upholds strong moral values and dignity. He chooses to live with the same mindset as Jesus: "Whosoever wants to become great must take the humble place of a servant." (Matthew 23:11)
1. Have you always felt the Lord leading you into politics?
I believe God gave me the correct tools, and it was the right time. I have lost elections in the past and did not understand why. I thought I was ready at the time, but I think the good Lord was waiting for me to get the right experience before I could receive the opportunity.
2. How has your faith aided you in leading the city of Racine?
I always focus on the teachings of the Bible: Do what's right and serve all of Gods people, no matter what. Everyone is important, so I try to treat them as Christ would.
3. How do you balance serving as mayor and spending time with your family?
This can be tough. I have to really work to balance family and all the work I have. Kids grow up, fast, but I try to do a lot of little things when I can. Breakfast with my daughter, baseball with my son, date night with my wife... Family is the most important thing, but you have to make time!
4. What advice would you give to yourself back in college?
Easy. Read more and invest wisely.
5. What has been the greatest challenge working as mayor?
Not thinking I am too important; I am just a servant. I have a prayer group that helps me with that.
6. Do you do anything in your day-to-day life to set aside time for God?
I received the book Jesus Calling from a friend of mine and I use it to bring me back to God. It truly helps to keep me grounded during times of difficulty.
