By Mark Lubbock
“Then the Lord answered me and said: Write the vision; make it plain on tablets, so that a runner may read it.”
––Habakkuk 2:2
One of the primary functions of a leader is to “set the course,” laying out the direction that the organization needs to travel in order to reach the desired destination.
An easy way to assess the effectiveness of your current operating process is to look at the activities of the previous three years and note the results.
For example, let’s go back three years with a hypothetical men’s organization to get a rough sense of how the group is moving and growing.
Three years ago
• 30 men––average age 58
• Meet monthly for breakfast and a speaker (non-religious, non-personal topics)
• 20% of the men are in a small group
• 100% attend church regularly
• 30% read the Bible periodically
• 18% are in a Bible study
• 70% attend Sunday school
• Big church cleanup and paint day
• Pressure wash widow’s house
• Fund raiser for Scouts––$1,800
This year
• 22 men––average age 66
• Meet monthly for breakfast and a speaker (non-religious, non-personal topics)
• 5% of the men are in a small group
• 100% attend church regularly
• 25% read the Bible periodically
• 5% are in a Bible study
• 60% attend Sunday school
• Host laity banquet.
• Fund raiser for Scouts––$2,900.
By looking back and making a comparison of what has already been done by this hypothetical group, you can quickly assess what is working well and what is not. From this data you can establish a revised plan.
In this imaginary case, statistics indicate numbers are declining, probably from death and moves, and the age is creeping up. Spiritual activity is declining as well.
It’s time to address those concerns.
Knowing that young men want to invest their time in something worthwhile, you might seek input from this missing group.
Approach them personally and tell them you need their advice. Invite them to a short and casual brainstorming session. This conversation may suggest activities that should be added to your future plans.
This is also your opportunity to invite individuals to accept leadership roles. Don’t expect them to assume major roles immediately. Invite them to assume “under-study” positions, such as a “secretary-in-training.”
In this way, you can offer them a lighter load while training them for future positions. When they are ready to assume primary roles, others may be recruited for apprentice roles.
With intentional plans to alter the course, you can regain lost momentum and once again grow and go!
“Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law.”
Proverbs 29:18
Blessings!
The Rev. Mark Lubbock, deployed staff
General Commission on UM Men
mlubbock@gcumm.org
Contact me with ideas, questions or requests for training such as “No Man Left Behind”, “Understanding Ministry to Men” or to schedule a speaking engagement:
This article is part of the April UMM e-letter. Other authors of that e-letter include: