On Saturday at the MSM training day we explored the importance of having a vision and how to get one.
Vision has become a popular word in business circles and as a result of many poorly managed visions (so vague that they mean nothing or too complex so that no one can achieve them) anyone in business (or public service) has become very cynical. However, it is undeniably true that without a clear idea of what we want to achieve we tend to achieve nothing.
The process of understanding a vision for a church can be complex. It involves listening to God first. What does God want us to do in this place? Then it is important to listen to the community that surrounds the church. What are its needs? Where are the opportunities? Then we need to listen to the church. What gifts do we have? Who is available to support a vision?
We explored a process where we can take an audit of our area and this should help us to discover its needs and opportunities.
In the end I think it is true that God already has a vision for what any church can do in its location; we just have to discover it.