I spent a weekend with a church that walked the Vision Pathway three years ago- Center Point Community Church. It was rewarding to see the changes that have occurred as a result of the process. The two most notable were the dramatic improvements in the quality of worship and the synergy of the staff and elder board, all driven by a clear vision. Two things about the visit surprised me: 1) How they didn't see the cumulative impact of the incremental changes. 2) How difficulties in the process of implementing vision are possibly defined or interpreted as failure rather than success. My presence as a strategic outsider provoked reasons to celebrate, because my vantage point provided immediate perspective and enthusiasm. Simply put, I could interpret the events of three years in a way that provided special meaning to the leaders.
Leaders interpret reality rather than letting individuals interpret for themselves in a vacuum. Today, how can you as the leader, step back and interpret the progress and changes in your ministry to help others celebrate. Consider listing five things that have changed in the last three years and point them out to others. Consider difficulties that have occurred: how was God in the challenge and how are people better because of it.