Keeping the vision

By  Mark Lubbock

Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained,  but happy is he who keeps the law.
Proverbs 29:18
Before launching  anything new The Rev. Trey Harris, pastor of NewSong UMC in Baton Rouge asks, "Why are we doing this?" He reasons  that before starting anything, it is important to have a clear, concise vision  of where we are going.

I press on toward the goal for the prize of the upward  call of God in Christ Jesus.
Philippians 3:14

How  can you "press on toward the goal"  without establishing the destination? Yet, way too often we embark on personal  and ministerial tasks without taking the time to discern where God is leading  us.
        Think  about a recent work day. The men were motivated and energized because they were  working toward a specific goal.
        Now,  think about your ministry. Do you have a vision statement setting the course  and direction for your entire effort? Do you have a defined end in sight? Is  everybody in your group aware of this vision?
        When  you have developed your vision, share it with men who seem uninterested in your  group—the guys who decline to join.
        Upcoming  generations of men aren't interested in taking time out to attend a meet-and-greet  breakfast. But, they will support an activity when the vision is clearly  explained.
        If  you face challenges in your men's ministry I recommend asking Pastor Trey's  question. Before answering that question, take time to pray and listen to God! Then share the vision and  let it lead the way for everything that you do.
        Finally,  ask yourself, "Where am I going in this life? Do I have an overriding goal toward  which I will never cease to reach?"
        Remember,  God has a plan for a "future and a hope" for us all.
        Seek  and you will indeed ... find!

The Rev. Mark Lubbock,  deployed staff
General Commission on  United Methodist Men
MLubbock@gcumm.org