As I travel back to the Impact 360 campus, sitting in a bus, surrounded by my friends and fellow classmates, I think about the amazing city of Washington, D.C. I reminisce on the beautiful architecture of the city, the history that shaped this nation, and the museums and art that surround this city. I reflect on each of the lectures delivered by highly educated professors who are leaders in their areas of expertise. I ponder upon the grandeur of each experience, place, and individual that we got to interact with. Amidst the awe-inspiring experiences, senators, professors, politicians, and intellectuals, a question reveals itself to me. How can I exercise Kingdom Influence where God has placed me in my current stage of life?
Washington, D.C. is a city filled with individuals who have dedicated themselves to serving this country with the best of their ability. Various nations and states have been shaped by the influence of intellectual and powerful individuals in this city. But what happens when our outlook shifts from others-centred to self-centredness, and life becomes a power struggle between my desires and another’s ultimate good? Service quickly turns into pride. In a place where influence is everything, who you know and who you influence becomes your identity. Identity in Christ and death to our own selves are not just applicable; they are required.
Thus, we have identified a problem. In a world where power and influence shape nations, where do we, as Christians, stand? And what should we do with our God-given influence here on earth? As we turn to the Bible for wisdom, we find a man who had all authority but chose to serve rather than be served. Jesus Christ walked this earth, giving of himself to those around him. Matthew 28:18 and Psalm 62:11 give evidence of the fact that He had all the power. The greatest man to ever live among us, God incarnate, chose to eat with sinners, heal the sick, love the outcasts, and lead by serving others first. He denied His deity to serve us. This is the cure to pride; this is the answer to perfect servant leadership; this answers our question. We must exercise our God-given influence with humility by serving others first, whatever our calling or place of work. Kingdom influence starts by recognizing God’s dominion and authority, denying the self, and putting others’ good above my own. 
During our time, we interacted with influential figures such as Senator Lankford, President of NGU, Dr. Gene C. Fant, and CEO of Charityvest, Stephen Kump. I learned that I, like them, can exert Godly influence for God’s glory. God has called us His ambassadors for the nations. Whether God asks you to talk to the President or serve in a homeless ministry, you carry the name of Jesus with you, regardless of your profession. It is not your influence that changes lives; it is the Holy Spirit that influences others through your faithfulness and obedience.
“Die to the dream of being a success; live to the dream of being a blessing.” – Matthew Barnet
Josías Castro (Guadalajara, México) | Class 20