Vision Clarity

We see pastors transforming into visionary pastor-leaders.

Then:  Vision belongs to the few mega-churches that talk at us about vision. Their models are compelling but they do not work for us.  We learned the hard way. Leadership, strategy and vision are words we resonate with, words we embrace, but we always feel like there is another level to reach.

Now:  I understand vision like never before, and I have a strategic thinking framework that is inspiring, unique and makes sense. I know what words I should use, and I know how to cast a compelling vision again and again. I have new levels of credibility. I have a renewed sense of competency. I cannot believe I have gone this far without a vision path.

We see teams that feel for the first time what it means to be a team.

Then:  Autocratic pastoral models and dysfunctional systems of influence through committees are all around us. Where new, healthy models have formed, we have leaders who are energetic and anxious to make an impact. We have lots of activity with little focus. We are working hard but working separately. We have successful ministries, but they are silos.  

Now:  There is a different kind of enthusiasm than we have ever known. We all left staff meeting today, and we are on the same page. We are all pulling together for the first time. The associate pastor made a decision in the best interest of the church-at-large, not his own ministry. Collaboration is becoming a reality.

We see a unique, strategic model for every local congregation.

Then:  We are tired of the programmatic approach and do not want any more canned thinking. I do not need another conference on how to do church. Words like traditional and contemporary do not mean much any more. Denominational leadership and resources are out of touch.

Now:  We are authentic leaders with an authentic model of local ministry. Our white board notes are different than any other church. We do not fit into a neat category. Our mission makes sense in our context. We have a lead navigator who helps us to see what we cannot. Our activity is more focused than ever. We were good, but now we are great.

We see local churches becoming local movements.

Then:  Eighty percent of churches are plateaued or in decline. Our church members do not have lost friends. Our church members nourish their identity in programs, pastoral personalities, the building, and the comfortable group of people who know their name. We are a community without cause. We are comfortably isolated and conveniently connected.

Now:  Our members are owners in our purpose. There is a heartbeat to the organization, a golden thread that weaves through every person and every activity. Church is not somewhere we go on Sunday morning; it is anywhere we go to make a difference. Our people are empowered and bold - we have a leadership culture. New people are coming to church. Morally wreckless people are finding hope in Jesus Christ. Our community is transforming, one life at a time.