Do we think in ways that are dominated by our past or by the future? There are books written on this subject, and several are probably on my shelves, but I still have to ask myself that question on a regular basis. Our actions each day will be guided predominantly by a reaction to what has already occurred or by an anticipation of what will occur. One does not exclude the other, only that one will determine the priority of our thinking.
What should we as churches and associations have as our focus? The answer to that question will determine whether we react or initiate, whether we put out fires or cultivate fields. It will also determine if we are prepared for a future we cannot see.
Too many of our churches, and perhaps some of our associations, spend most of their resources on reacting to the past instead of preparing for the future as hazy as it may often appear. The results are all too often a repetition of old efforts with the same dead end conclusions. Lessons that should have been learned from past experiences are ignored or misinterpreted. Resources disappear down a black hole, and we try to soothe our frazzled souls with the assurance that we did our best with what we had.
What if we focused upon future-focused questions? What will the future be like? Do our goals include adjusting to a future we cannot see? What tools do we need to face an undefined future? Do we have those tools? Are we willing to invest whatever it takes to get those tools?
What are the critcal resources that we will need to move into the future faithfully serving the Kingdom of God? Are we seeking to accumulate those resources? Are we investing in materials and/or relationships? Which one must have the priority? What plans do we have in place in the present that reflect our future focus?
The power of the past can destroy all hope of a faithful future. Facing the future in a healthy and God-honoring way will never happen by chance or luck. It is an intentional decision that involves intentional action. And it must begin today!
