Whether it’s from the parents, the teens or the general congregation you are dealing with an array of expectations. Everyone will have an opinion on how your youth ministry should behave, but in the end it’s you who is leading.
The question that you need to answer is whether or not your vision is big enough? If you don’t know the answer then you probably haven’t thought about it enough. Vision matters because it:
What are you working towards? Is it growing disciples? Is it to impact a community? If you don’t have a destination you’ll find yourself moving in circles. A vision gives you a direction of where you need to go.
Vision will help you set goals and those goals will help you determine the progress you are making. This will allow you to make the tweaks and changes necessary to grow your ministry. (For more on measuring your ministry click here)
People want to know why they are doing matters. A vision gives others the motivation to overcome obstacles and road blocks. It will remind them that when time is tough what they are doing is worth it.
Vision matters, but how do you know if it’s the right vision?
The right vision is a part of God’s vision. If you didn’t discern it and pray over it then you won’t know. Take time to ask God if you are moving in the right direction. Allow him to tweak it.
If your ministry didn’t exist tomorrow would people notice? Look at what is happening in your neighborhoods and schools. Determine what the biggest problems people are facing and answer the question, “What can my ministry do about it?”
Your vision should address that concern. It should show why your youth ministry matters and why it needs to exist.
While it takes one person to picture the vision it takes a team to craft it. Whatever your vision is as a leader make sure other people are pouring into it. Get their thoughts and feedback. This will enable you to develop a vision that is clear and inspiring.
Your vision isn’t something you create and then walk away from. It needs to be revisited regularly. Weave it into meetings and spend time away thinking about it. By revisiting the vision you can make sure you are on track.
When you dream big, you allow God to do big things in your church and life. With a big vision your ministry can reach and inspire a lot of people to go deeper. Don’t hold back.
[reminder] What’s your youth ministry’s vision statement? [/reminder]