We all know it is imperative for leaders to have and maintain a vision.  “The most pathetic person in the world is someone who has sight” said Helen Keller, “but has no vision.”  Vision is what distinguishes the leader from the follower.  It is the one thing that differentiates the average traveler from the informed, observant driver: the ability to see up ahead.

Vision is especially important in pastoral ministry.  As a pastor I am not only preparing for this Sunday, I am preparing for the Sunday 5, 10, 20 years from now.    Mel Lawrenz hits on this notion in …