Transition Update Part 4

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The “Live Line” Approaches

Rev. Dr. Douglas Rutt

As the “live line” of April 1 draws near, I pondered the negative connotations associated with the word that is usually used, "deadline." To me, a “deadline” can feel like a looming shadow, stirring up anxiety and apprehension, much like the impending April 15 tax filing deadline. However, when we consider the upcoming transition of administrative responsibilities at CFNA, set by our esteemed board of directors for April 1, 2024, a different perspective emerges. That is why I like to use “live line” rather than “deadline.”

Rather than viewing it as a daunting point in time, this milestone represents a beautiful testament to the continuity and longevity of the ministry of CFNA. It is a tangible sign of God's providence, showcasing His desire for CFNA to thrive well into the future, even under new leadership helmed by Executive Director Dr. Stanish Stanley.

In this light, the deadline becomes a beacon of hope and renewal, guiding us toward a new chapter filled with possibility and purpose. It is a reminder that transitions are not endings, but rather beginnings, infused with the promise of growth and resilience. As we approach this pivotal moment, let us embrace it with gratitude and anticipation for the journey ahead.

An important part of the transition process is the review and revision of the strategic plan that will guide CFNA into the future. I have taught on strategic planning many times during my career. Often, I would talk about different approaches or attitudes toward strategic planning that I have seen, especially by people in the church:

  • Do not plan – allow God to work​

  • Plan everything – we are responsible for everything.​

  • Plan for little things – leave the rest up to God.​

  • Paradox Planning: Plan everything, but understand that God is working in everything.​

Of the four options above, I believe that the fourth is the most appropriate approach. A strategic plan should not be a straitjacket that controls things so tightly that there is no room for flexibility when it is called for. While we plan the best we can, with the best information we can obtain, we know that God sometimes intervenes in marvelous and mysterious ways so that we find ourselves compelled to change our plans. The Apostle Paul was a strategic thinker in all that he did, but sometimes God had other plans, as seen in the book of Acts:

“Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, ‘Come over to Macedonia and help us.’ After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” (Acts 16:6-10)

Paul’s plan was to preach in Phrygia, Galatia, and Bithynia, but God caused him to abandon his plans to go instead to Macedonia. Paul’s original plan must have seemed at first like a frustrating failure to him and his companions. But God led him on in a direction which would lead to the important ministries in Philippi, Berea, Thessalonica, Athens, and Corinth. As the saying goes, “Man proposes, God disposes.”

The board has contracted with Rev. David Vaughn to lead CFNA through a comprehensive planning process. He is a retired Navy officer with years of leadership and strategic planning experience, including LCMS international missions. He is laying out a process that will involve many stakeholders, both internal and external. The process will run from approximately April through September, although a strategic plan is a living document that is reviewed and evaluated continuously. 

Please continue to keep Rev. Stanley in your prayers as he assumes full executive responsibility of CFNA. Pray to God thanking him for the ministry of Carol and Al Buckman and the fact that they will be honored this year at Concordia Seminary’s Commencement. And pray that God would work mightily in the strategic planning process under the leadership of Rev. Vaughn.

Sincerely in Christ,
Douglas Rutt, CFNA Board Chair