The power of vision

This past week I attended the spring meeting of the Church Relations Council at Campbellsville University.  For two days we heard about the wonderful things happening at that school.  At a time when many colleges and universities struggle to attract students Campbellsville University just experienced their 22nd consecutive record enrollment.  During a recession that makes fund raising difficult for most institutions this is a school that has successfully completed a major capital funds campaign.  Unlike some schools that have decided to compromise its values, Campbellsville University continues to emphasize its commitment to Christian higher education.  While some universities are forced to sell or close some of their buildings, Campbellsville University is building new dorms for their expected increase in students and plans to break ground soon to construct new buildings to house some of their schools.  While on campus I visited their Center for Bivocational Ministry and found that it had expanded and was planning new ways to provide resources to bivocational and small church leaders and the churches they serve.

The continuing growth at Campbellsville University is no accident.  It has happened because the leadership, beginning with the President, have a vision of what this school can do and what it can become.  They recently approved a new vision called Vision 2025, and this vision is impacting every decision that is being made on that campus.  Unlike some churches that create a vision statement that gathers dust on a forgotten shelf somewhere, Campbellsville University takes seriously the vision they believe will guide them for the next 14 years.  This vision statement gives them a clear mental image of what the school will look like in 2025, and they are taking the steps they believe will allow them to see that vision become a reality.

This university is a great example of how a vision can impact an organization.  With an image of a preferred future any organization can become much more focused in its decisions and actions.  Instead of drifting through life hoping that good things might happen, with a vision an organization can move forward with a purpose.  What is true of other organizations is also true for your church.  With a clear vision of where the church would like to be in 10-15 years, it becomes possible for a church to become more focused and intentional in its planning and in its actions.  Anything that will help achieve that vision receives a yes vote, and anything that would detract from that vision is declined.  With focus and intentionality comes power, the power to become what God has intended, and with that power comes the opportunity to truly make a difference in people's lives and in the culture in which we live.

I cannot emphasize too much the difference having a clear vision can make for your church.  You may need assistance in seeking God's vision for your church.  You may find it helpful to bring in a coach or consultant from outside your church to assist you in this.  If you are interested in having a coach, please let me know.  I have worked with a number of churches to help them identify God's vision for their churches, and I may be able to assist your church as well.  Regardless of whether you get outside help in this process or do it strictly within your congregation, seek a fresh vision from God and see the impact such a vision will have on your church.