What is the overarching narrative that runs through your church or ministry right now? At the risk being too simplistic, it is probably one of two extremes. One is a story of woe and discouragement. It’s captured in the phrase, “2020 is trying to kill us,” and it includes a recitation of all the different difficulties that we are experiencing. 

A second says, “In the midst of a lot of bad news, God is doing something.” It’s a narrative that expresses curiosity and anticipation. It is not a naive view that ignores reality, but it is anchored in confidence that God is with us and is at work in our world. 

It’s important to note that you can point to facts that support either narrative. More important to note is that those in leadership largely determine which of the two narratives has the most traction within an organization. The themes and stories that you emphasize in your communication will set the tone for your organization.

The first narrative emphasizes survival. Phrases like “hunker down” or “conserve resources” or “circle the wagons” characterize this narrative. This is a natural instinct when the world seems to be a dangerous place.

The second narrative emphasizes opportunity. Leaders may talk about “taking new ground” or “better to try and fail than not try at all” or “getting out of our comfort zone.” It calls for movement that breaks out of the status quo.

What narrative would best serve your church or ministry right now? And how can you use your platform to shape that narrative?