Catalyst Track: Dream Big, Think Small // Day Three

This track comes from Jeff Manion’s new book, Dream Big, Think Small.

 

The term “finishing strong” has become overused to the point that it seems cliché. But as a runner, and as a pastor moving into his fourth decade in ministry, the term conjures a powerful image for me—a picture of not bailing when the race gets tough but of crossing the finish line.

 

I don’t want to simply endure ministry, marriage, and friendships. I want to remain fully engaged—bringing the best version of myself to the needs of those around me. I don’t want to ever become a guy standing behind a lectern uttering mechanical, formulaic, pathetic words that lack comfort, power, and challenge.

 

 I don’t want to quit before I finish.

 

Over the next 3 days, Jeff shares the veteran wisdom he’s acquired from years in ministry. Whether you are just embarking on your journey of leadership, or you’ve been on this trail for a while, there are timeless insights in this track to help you continue to lead others well. 

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DAY 3: The Discipline of Preparation

 

Frequently, I’ve asked students to name their favorite preachers. Who do they download religiously? Who inspires and challenges them? Who would they wish to emulate? The students respond, naming well-known speakers with whom they resonate.

 

I then encourage them with, “If you desire to teach with that level of effectiveness, don’t attempt to copy what they are doing while on the platform. Instead, discover what they’re doing when they are not on the platform. Imitate that instead.”

 

Public performance is one thing. Private discipline is another.

 

Transformational sermons are birthed in solitude, requiring extended time glued to a chair. When effective sermons are finally delivered, they may be deeply engaging, powerfully illustrated, and life-changing. But they aren’t all that interesting to write. They result from a redundant process that looks pretty much the same week after week.

 

First come hours spent reading and re-reading a passage of Scripture, scouring the pages of commentaries for borrowed insight, note-taking, and drafting a structured outline. We offer humble prayers, asking our Lord to whisper what he longs for his people to hear. Then comes crafting illustrations, crossing the cultural bridge from the world of the Bible to our generation with the intent of bringing hope, comfort, and conviction to the people sitting in front of us.

 

While much of my study time is spent developing the sermon I will deliver that weekend, a large segment is reserved for cultivating ideas that will not reach the platform for months. This advance preparation allows a passage of Scripture or a biblical character to grow on my heart, germinating over time.

 

This is not as easy as it sounds. The pressure of immediate and urgent situations conspires to drive out planning for the future. Don’t underestimate the discipline required to focus forward as present crises plead for your attention.

 

CHALLENGE:

Whether it’s for a sermon, curriculum, or a weekly presentation, how can you better prepare?