Righteous authority

There are many structures of authority in the world. Whether it is in politics, diplomacy, scholarship, or athletics, in any sector there is always someone that stands in the privileged position. Yet in the end do any of these worldly distinctions really carry weight? People may swear allegiance to someone based on their secular prominence, but if that person is shown to have little integrity, people will recognize that the secular prominence was not rooted in the merit of a righteous life and thus their allegiance will wane. 

Real authority does not come from the things that this word deems to be honorable, but rather from living up to the ideal of selfless service and upholding moral principles in the face of immense challenges. This is the type of authority that can move people to naturally submit themselves even at the risk of their lives. 

Mt. Pilchuck trail, WA - October 2013