What would happen if we truly believed we were bound for greatness. Of course I am not talking about the material assumptions that are often prescribed by pop culture when I speak of greatness. With this understanding of greatness we would see our diligent and often monotonous efforts in light of the big picture and not merely the 'here and now'. We would see that we are striving for a greater day and the fulfillment of all we have worked for. The desire to demand immediate results would fade because we would recognize the magnitude of what God has called us to. It has been said that when God creates a squash He takes two months, but when He creates a mighty oak tree God takes one hundred years. Truly there is a process to greatness.
In light of planting a church we can hope for instant growth and stability, but even when there are great numbers of people true greatness is still associated with a process. I have adopted the saying that 'failure is often the refinery of life.' When we fail it is an opportunity to grow and avoid future failures; to rid ourselves of destructive habits, ideals and misunderstood realities.
Since the inception of this church we have seen great growth both numerically and as a family that genuinely cares for one another. However, we must have the reality that understands we are part of a great vision. We are not merely attending a church, but we are building a great work for the Kingdom of God for future generations. We may not have the luxuries of a building, multiple ministries, a full worship band and fringe benefits like day care discounts, but our goals are greater than ourselves. Our dreams are for the purposes of eternity that many might come to know the hope, joy and freedom of knowing Christ which is far greater than our wants to be satisfied. So to each church planter, and member of church that is focused on an eternal reward may you continue strive for changed lives of all who will be recipients of the sacrifices made to establish a work of Christ in your communities.
"If you are faithful in little things, you will be faithful in large ones..."
- Jesus (Luke 16: 10a)
