Understanding your mission is essential, but it’s equally important to recognize when and how to evolve with the times. Sticking rigidly to old methods can lead to stagnation, even when the mission itself remains relevant. Just as the early church adapted from Jewish customs to reach Gentiles, we must be willing to adjust our approaches to meet the current needs of our audience. The core message or purpose doesn’t change, but the way we communicate and execute it should. Embracing new ideas and technologies, without compromising our foundational values, allows us to stay effective and impactful in an ever-changing world.
Mark Zuckerberg serves as an excellent example of adapting to changing times while staying true to a core mission. In a 2016 interview, he mentioned that if he were to start Facebook over, he would still focus on connecting people. However, instead of building a website like he did in 2004, he would leverage a mobile app or other future technologies. This adaptability is evident in 2024, as he’s rebranded the parent company as Meta and is now exploring AI, AR, and VR technologies. The lesson here is to stay committed to the “what” of your mission, while allowing the “how” to evolve with the times.
Habakkuk 2:2 encourages us to write the vision and make it plain. A clear mission is essential for evolution; you can’t adapt a vision you don’t fully understand. To gain this clarity, immerse yourself in prayer, study, and meditation. When your mission becomes crystal clear, the destination remains visible, even as the world changes around you. This clarity allows you to stay focused on the end goal while being flexible in your methods. It’s not just about having a vision; it’s about understanding it so well that you can navigate the changing landscapes of life and still reach your intended outcome.
