In This Issue:
•Facing a Challenge?
•Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan
Facing a Challenge?
One of the lessons of Easter is that God does not always get us out of trouble – even if we ask – but, instead, is determined to get us through it. The resurrection took place only after the crucifixion. Similarly, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were only saved after they had been thrown into the fire.Now let’s apply that to Christianity in the West. Membership and attendance are down, money is becoming the force which drives decisions, churches continue to close and more and more people are completely unaffiliated with a Christian faith community. It would be great if there was a magic wand we could waive over the Church and make it grow again. We have long sought “the answer”, “the program”, “the structure”, “the prayer”, etc. which would make everything okay again but that search has proven unsuccessful. There is no donor, law or leader who will suddenly make everything okay. We are going to have to go through this time of trial and challenge.
God is on this journey with us, however. We are not alone. A resurrection is possible. Some things may have to die and many things will have to change but that is the nature of resurrection. Into the darkness of our experience a voice can be heard calling us to come forth. Resurrection is possible but it is also optional – it is offered but we have to accept it. A tweak here and a tweak there will never result in resurrection. A willingness to die and change, however, can get us moving in the right direction.
Plan Your Work and Work Your Plan
It is an old saying but it contains a lot of wisdom. It is similar to my dad telling me “measure twice, cut once is better than measure once, cut twice”. These sayings speak to intentionality. They highlight the value of thinking through what you want to do and then doing it.Almost every pastor, church staff member and church leader is busy. The demands of today are great plus there are still a lot of things from yesterday’s To-Do list which are still not crossed off. Sometimes it feels like all you can do is paddle enough to keep your head above water.
Great ministry which leaves a lasting legacy, however, requires more than just reacting to what happens today. It takes clear steps designed to reach clear goals. It takes a plan which is lived into intentionally.
Most churches are so busy with their current programming that they would benefit greatly from having outside assistance with thinking deeply about their future, discerning God’s call, creating a plan and implementing that plan. If you are looking for assistance, we are here to help. Contact us today and let’s explore where God is leading you and the church – don@dnacoaching.com.
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