Vision

“For lack of vision, the people run wild….”
Ginnette and I joined staff in the summer of 82.’ We were at CSU along with about 40 other fresh legs, and to say we were ‘Gung Ho’ is putting it mildly! Even so, listening to our leadership reiterate the mission refreshed us, and built a solid frame around our own vision.
Since then, I’ve occasionally needed to step back and kick the tires, so to speak. Do I still believe the mission is possible? Am I still as passionate about reaching every student as when I began? Will I still sacrifice as God leads, putting others first and my own needs behind?
Honestly, I can go a long time without knowing my ‘tires’ need attention. But certain symptoms alert me that my vision has blurred, and my faith has atrophied. I’ve forgotten those first heart stopping, mouth gaping God sightings that kept me lean and hungry in the Great Commission.
Here are a few nails I’ve had to pull from the tire over the years.
I think the organization exists for me. The subtle shift from remembering why I’m here and taking personal responsibility, to thinking corporate owes me. It’s a mental, backward step from adult to child, and it keeps me thinking small. The worst part; it can affect younger leaders. Remember, status quo is a transferable concept.
I think security is found in a place, or through ministry partners. The subtle shift from knowing my hope and trust lie in God, to thinking I’m in God’s will because things run smoothly, or my needs are being met. Fear of change is the single greatest detriment to fresh visionary leadership. When that suffers, the movement shifts into neutral.
I think proven methods equal God’s heart for the mission. The subtle shift from knowing that; ‘unless the Father draws them,’ to thinking because I saw fruit before, I will do this again, and again, and again. I need to ask myself; is my strategy based on history, or the leading of the Holy Spirit?
I think ministry gives life to my spirit. The subtle shift from knowing that love fuels my devotional life, to thinking that my call and duty in ministry will reward my spirit with energy and purpose. If I cater to this usurper, I will eventually find myself in a time capsule, unable or unwilling to move forward through fresh revelation.
At the start of the new decade, ask yourself: Do I remember the mission? Do I believe the mission is possible? Do I remember why I joined the mission, and what I meant to do?