I love dreaming of what could and should be, preparing for it to happen, persevering through the opposition, and enjoying the sweet victory of transformation. I love the process of how a vision materializes. Whether it’s personal or professional, I get caffeinated at the potential. In my current phase of life everything I’m involved in seems to be in the phase of preparation and I love it but the work is draining. I thought I’d recap the process of a vision and it’s components.

The process:

• Discontent. Frustration. Bothered. Angered. Something has to change.
• Preparations are made for the change. Schedule the work out. Survey the landscape. Understand the problem deeply and what needs to be done to see change. Research.
• Talk it big and walk it small. Explain the problem and then share the solution. Until now you’ve been covert but now come out and share the vision. Public awareness brings more accountability. But don’t forget to make the small daily steps that will take you there. Blab your story but walk it small in the details.
• Persevere. Don’t quit. Keep going. When you feel like quitting you’ll be developing a deeper appreciation of what could be and should be. Find the end of your self-sufficiency and experience grace that will get you through.
• Celebrate. Enjoy the journey and enjoy the accomplishment. Celebrate your milestones.

Components of a vision:

• What you want to accomplish.
• Why you want to accomplish it.
• How you will get it done.
• When you know you’re getting it done.
• A milestone to reach for.

Right now I’m wrestling with the components or finer points of the vision of Discovery Church as we prepare for a relaunch. I wish I could share them with your right now! Our 50 plus year old church is at the cusp of renewal and wrestling with these components is our most important work.

(I’m so thankful for a friend of mine who pastors that recommended Church Unique . I’m burned out on so many church leadership books that say the same thing but Mancini does a great job of addressing the above components and challenging each church to find it’s uniqueness.)

Pray for our church. Best days to come!

Thoughts?

(The link is my amazon affiliate link.)

For those of you interested in the McAlister family allow me to recap:

• Left Hot Springs excited for a new chapter in ‘07. For part of ‘08 and almost all of ‘09 I was half-time at the church. We dug down and focused on surviving, believing we were called to Columbus.
• While I did all I could (extra work, seeking every opportunity, Brandi sold her engagement ring for the last year’s Christmas, I sold my car over a year ago, cut backs in every way) it wasn’t enough.
• We learned what it means to let others help you. My friend and neighbor allowed me to use his truck for over a year! Financial gifts large and small from friends in our church and all over the country came through at perfect times.
• Through the generosity of others I was able to start a doctoral program that I plan on completing this year or next depending on project approval.
• I have learned what it means to allow God to pastor me in the moment and live with more authenticity rather than hype for the future.
• I could say much more about this character school but I’m also thankful that I’ve learned more about being a servant (but I have so much further to go!)
• Not only has there been financial blessings but I’ve gained new mentors. I am surrounded by awesome friends, old and new mentors, and family who have shepherded my heart and poured into me at my darkest moments.
• What’s next? The oldest two girls are in homeschool and Brandi amazes me how she schools them, cares for them, and has been so supportive through our journey.
• Also..I am pumped to lead Discovery Church into the next phase of our journey. (New location, team building, and more seeking Jesus as we “help others discover life in Jesus”.) Thanks to all of you for your support and prayers. It is such a relief to have the building sold.  On top of this, God has allowed me an opportunity for some coaching to achieve a passion that has developed in me over the last year. As many of you know I want to help others go through the same journey I have in finding identity apart my performance. The future goal is an event for professionals that helps them facilitate this journey as I build a platform for more teaching, writing, and speaking along these lines.
• A big praise update…The day we closed on the sale of the church a friend let me know he would be giving me his car! It’s in the driveway now. Life is hilarious