"The Room Where It Happens"

One of the high points in the hit musical Hamilton is the song “The Room Where It Happens.” In classic political fashion, Alexander Hamilton has negotiated a backroom deal with James Madison and Thomas Jefferson to achieve his goal. The song is sung by Aaron Burr, Hamilton’s rival, who is on the outside and desperately wants to be “in the room where it happens.” I often hear a variation of this cry from leaders who are not on the “executive team” of their church or ministry. They want to be in the room where strategic decisions are being made. They feel like they have valuable input to offer. They’re frustrated that a small group disappears behind closed doors and emerges with a solution. So let me offer some advice, both to those who are in the room and those who are not. If you’re a first chair leader or executive team member – on the inside – I recognize and affirm your reasons for keeping the team small. Doing so allows you to have more candid conversations as you wrestle with weighty issues. But are you being thoughtful and intentional in seeking input from others as you make those decisions? Are you communicating effectively after the decisions are made – about what has been decided and the underlying rationale? Could you invite others into the inner circle, at least on some occasions, as a developmental opportunity and a chance to gain more perspective? If you’re on the outside, what is your true motivation? In Hamilton, it is Burr’s ego, not love for his country, which drives his desire to be in the room. This may be a time to pray and ask God to search your heart and reveal any offensive behavior in your life (Psalm 139:23-24). If your desire is not ego-driven, what constructive suggestions can you offer to your first chair or executive team? How can you demonstrate that you first concern is for the church or ministry (not yourself) and that you can make a positive contribution on high-level decisions? You probably know the end of the historical story. The rivalry continues to escalate, and Burr eventually challenges Hamilton to a duel. Hamilton is killed, and Burr is disgraced, becoming a footnote in American history and never gaining the influence of being in the room where it happens. Regardless of which side of the door you find yourself on, that story is a sobering reminder for today’s leaders. It’s easy to receive my blogs by email. Just sign-up on Feedburner by clicking here.]]>