Developing_a_Vision.pdf

According to Webster’s Dictionary, one definition of vision is “a thought, concept or object formed by the imagination.” One of the great visions in recent history was sending a man to the moon. That was a lofty goal that required much effort. The Apollo Moon program took almost 10 years. It required thousands of workers and cost the lives of three men after a tragic accident on Apollo I in 1967. Two years later, on July 20, 1969, the crew of Apollo 11 landed on the moon. Stepping off the Eagle, Neil Armstrong said, “One small step for man; one giant leap for mankind.”

What does vision look like among God’s people in ministries to children? I think vision looks like this: Adults taken with the glory of God and the majesty of Jesus Christ work toward what is impossible with man, but possible with God—the transformation of young hearts who eagerly wait for the return of the King and serve him while waiting with lives marked by love, faith, and joy. “He died for all, that those who live might no longer live for themselves but for him who for their sake died and was raised” (2 Corinthians 5:15).

One example of vision in action is Bethlehem’s Marlene Johnson, who has been on a 50-year journey to declare the gospel to young women and build them up in their faith. Her vision is now being expressed through the ministry of Adventure Girls, where many have been blessed by her faithfulness, according to God’s grace.

Have you considered that the good work of making disciples of Jesus Christ among children, the next generation, serves every ministry in the church? Global Outreach is served by children growing up in the faith that promotes the desire to live for Jesus Christ and to declare his glory among the peoples. Local outreach of loving people in our neighborhoods is served by children growing up in the faith and learning to care for others in Jesus’ name. Look at our ushers, elders, sisters in the White Cross ministry, servants in the book store; look at adult disciples at Bethlehem and remember that they were once children.

Would you join us in this good work? It is well worth the energy of a lifetime, and it feeds joy. Would you partner with your spouse, your fiancé, your small group, a friend, or a son/daughter and serve with us in Nursery, Sunday School, Kids Connection, Adventure Girls, SAY Yes!, Life Coaches, and Scouts? Find a partner and join us in this good work.

To learn more, contact Suzy Plocher at 612-455-3482 (Downtown/South) or Lori Myers at 612-455-0808.

Your fellow servant of Jesus Christ,

Bud Burk
Pastor for Child & Youth Discipleship, Downtown & South