There are numerous lessons we can take from our Lord Jesus. The clarity of his mission statement is one of the most fascinating things to learn. Matthew 4:17 (ESV) says, “from that time Jesus began to preach, saying, ‘repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand’.” He was able to communicate exactly what he was on about in a few words. The great commission is another fantastic example of profound clarity in communication. “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations,” the command is straightforward. You understand what needs to be done.
We frequently struggle to make any progress with our work because we lack a clear mission statement to work with. Your mission (and vision) reflect your level of clarity over your work. You will not have any impact with your work unless you have some kind of mission statement guiding and moulding your day-to-day work. Around 1980, Bill Gates gave Microsoft, the company he founded, a clear mission: “A computer on every desk and in every home.” Mark Zuckerberg’s Facebook bio reads: “bringing the world closer together”. A clear mission statement will transform your life forever.
The first step in starting a business or ministry is defining who you are and what you are called to do. Clarity will improve over time, so it is acceptable to lack clarity at first. Spend some time praying about a mission statement for your work. Then go out there and prayerfully copy the mission statement of anyone or organisation that speaks to you. The message Jesus Christ proclaimed in Matthew 4:17 was a rehash of John the Baptist (Matthew 3:1-2). We learn from this that we can model a mission statement from others that started before us. It is acceptable.
