My Vision

*This is long. I just wanted to warn you.*

This past Sunday our pastor delivered a particularly stirring sermon. He challenged all of us to really figure out what it is that God has given us a passion for and turn it into a ministry. He said, statistically speaking, 20% of members of a congregation do 80% of the work-and, generally, everyone accepts that and goes about their business. His question was, "What if 100% of the congregation had a vision/passion and actually took steps to turn it into a ministry?" Think of what we could accomplish...Think of all the lives that could be changed...Think of all those people who are hurting who could be provided for and comforted.

Jacob and I are both involved in our church. We DO stuff. We don't just show up haphazardly and merely sit, listen and go home. BUT, am I really bringing something new to the table? Am I using the gifts God has given me to truly make a difference-or at least try to make a difference in the grand scheme of life? I have excused myself from really exploring what it is I have to offer because I'm a mom and, well, it's all-consuming. I don't think that's an acceptable excuse.

Anyway, I decided to ask the members of my life group if any of them had a vision for a ministry. Then, I shared mine. I have a passion for seeing couples eliminate debt and live a life free from all the clutter that is caused by excessive spending and collecting. It's a road Jacob and I have chosen after learning through Crown Financial Ministries and Dave Ramsey and I am convinced that it is extremely relevant in today's economy. Our culture yells, "Buy now, pay later with 36 easy payments!" "You deserve this, you've worked so hard!" "This is the gadget you've been looking for to fill that emptiness you feel inside!" "This will cure you of your insecurity!" Baloney. God loves us and wants us to love others. He wants us to be free to minister in any and all capacities, but when we are tangled in a web of debt and stuff, we aren't free to do that. Sorry, I may have gone a little overboard, but, like I said, it's my passion.

Here's what was really cool about Sunday. When I shared my vision-to provide financial counseling to families who were struggling-my life group members became excited. You see, the two other families in the room have also chosen to live a life free of debt. WHAT?! I had no idea. They had all walked the same road, made the same sacrifices and were sitting there sharing about what a difference it had made in their lives. THEN, they proceeded to suggest ways we could ALL participate in the ministry together. Okay, at this point, I was just planning on sharing my vision with no real plan of putting it into action soon because, well, like I said, I'm a mom (embarrassing, sheepish grin). So, here's what I love about God. Not only has He given me a passion, but He has also provided some real support and accountability. I've said it now. It's out there. Other people know and are willing to help. So, what choice do I have? I think I've got to stop making excuses and just do it. That's what I think.

So, what's your vision?

What's your passion?

What are you doing to put it into action?