This weekend I was watching a news program on Brexit – the United Kingdom’s plan to leave the European Union. When the vote was first taken there was much rancor, protesting, speeches, passion and politicking. Now almost two years later, it seems the UK has not figured out how to pull this off!  

I’m not judging, this is a common problem, especially in the church. We have great plans, visions, and dreams. We go to meetings, conferences, convocations, trainings and produce lots of Session and Cabinet minutes and then…well it doesn’t happen exactly as planned.  

We can’t give up. I believe our hearts and minds are in the right place but we often underestimate how much time it may take to get folks on board, raise money, set policy, develop procedures or simply map it out, whatever “it” is. I know, we are working on several exciting initiatives in the Presbytery that are taking some time to get going. Yet I see an opportunity!  

This new year, take some extra time to plan out what you’d like to see happen in your congregation, ministries and maybe in your own life. Then begin the process of…well…following the process. With each big step, evaluate, then move forward again. Keep the goal in mind, but understand that there are twists and turns; new information may emerge and road blocks may appear. But you and I and we will get there! In fact success is in the journey, the discovery, the path. And don’t forget to pray. God will walk with us as we seek God’s will in all we do!  

Happy New Year!