Recently we were privileged to have Dr. Roger Parrott speak to our pastors and staff about his book The Longview. It is a study on planning for the long term vs. short term. One of his topics dealt with vision casting. He challenged us to begin to plan from a “destination” model to a “transformational” model. Destination planning involves setting specific goals and objectives, while, transformational planning involves focusing on preparation and looking for opportunities for ministry. Dr. Parrott challenged us to “live in anticipation that God will bring opportunities” our way. Our effort should be on being prepared when the opportunity presents itself.
This fits so nicely into the example of Christ. He was sent and equipped, but gave his life touching people as the opportunities arose. He was focused on doing the will of the Father, that meant transforming those he came into contact with.
I can’t help but get excited at the prospects of our district and its ministry and impact, if we would become a culture of churches that looked for opportunities to be “Jesus” to others, then got involved in those opportunities. Let’s ask the Holy Spirit to open our eyes to the opportunities around us. It just might change someone’s life.
