One of CRISTA's three strategic pillars is: "One Mission". We recently had two outstanding examples of "One Mission" on the Shoreline Campus. Pictures are worth a thousand words and I am glad I can post them on my blog.
The circle picture contains 10 seniors citizens who reside at Cristwood and 10 seniors from Kings High School also on the Shoreline campus of CRISTA. Three different times during the day (each time with a new group of participants) we gathered out in front of our administration build and briefed the group on two or three of our ministries and then they prayed. This brings joy and purpose to everyone sitting around the circle. This brings spiritual vitality to the CRISTA community and encourages us all.
In addition, our camp staff brought over some animals (real live ones) to our senior living facility recently. I love these pictures! Another great example of how we continue to embrace "One Mission" and bask in the light of God's love in grace. It has been a great week so far. I can hardly wait for the next few days to see what God will bring.
Exodus 33:13 If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you.
Deuteronomy 8:6 Observe the commands of the LORD your God, walking in his ways and revering him.
Isaiah 55:8 For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the LORD.
It is this last verse that always gets me to stop and think and pray. As the President of CRISTA I am in the midst of leading a strategic planning process. We know that this comes in the middle of a big financial crisis around the world. All you can really do is get the best people you have together to pray and plan for the future, figure in as many different scenarios as you can and commit the plans to the the Lord. There are all kinds of templates to do this and many different experts offer their insights on how to do strategic plans. I think these are all important. But then you throw in IS 55:8... Help me with that one will you?