PrintPONDERING MY PURPOSE (1)
I have long since believed that purpose statements, visions statements, mission statements and the like need to be reviewed regularly and, if necessary, revised so that their value and impact is not diminished or becomes irrelevant.
Last week I was perusing this site and I found myself unexpectedly reflecting again on the four-fold purpose of 'Barnabas Network' as outlined on the Home Page. Those reflections somehow urged me to check my emphases and directions as I continue to write for "Barney" (as the site is affectionately known around here). So here is what emerged as I 'pondered the purpose' of this website.
[1] To Support the Faithful
To be an avenue that supports and stimulates passion for Jesus Christ in the lives of all who have committed themselves to follow Him and to cheer them on life's journey as they seek to fulfill Jesus' purpose for their lives.
Passion is a dynamic that all-too-easily looses its energy. Those involved in Christian life and ministry will quickly testify to the truth of that statement. As a Christian for more than 50 years and a Pastor for almost 40 of those years I know the importance of being supported by the affirmation of fellow believers. I need to be stimulated and inspired by the example of other lives if I am to be passionate in my life and service.
"Faithful" is what we are called to be. Not successful. Not famous. Just faithful. There are countless disciples of Jesus who will never make the "Who's Who of the Kingdom"!! Their names will never appear on a list of conference speakers. But their faithfulness honours the King.
This faithfulness may not be under any kind of pressure just at this time. Most often there will be a sense of "steady as she goes" - even a sense of routine and (dare I say it?) of mundaneness. Not every day is marked by miracles and marvels. Faithfulness in the midst of the seemingly mundane is an offering to God that I believe has a special place in His heart.
In a sense, it is easy to be faithful in the midst of the miraculous. To be faithful in the midst of the mundane or routine is not quite so easy. Passion can flagg. Faith can struggle. It is at such times and seasons that we really need support from our fellow pilgrims. Of course, there are those who deny the validity of the mundane and argue that we should always be experiencing at least one miracle a day. I just happen to disagree with them.
I so much want "Barney" to be an avenue of support, stimulation and inspiration to all who visit these pages. I hope that this initiative will provide information, ideas and concepts that have practical application BUT, most of all, I want what is written will be supportive for those who are simply desiring to be faithful in their relationship with God and in His call upon their lives.
More about that in my next entry
