Yesterday, Larry Frakes notified the Baptist General Association of Virginia (BGAV) of his intent to nominate me for BGAV president at the upcoming annual meeting here in Richmond. This is a volunteer position elected annually for a one-year term.
Let me share with you a couple of factors that went into the decision for me.
I possess this incredible sense of urgency believing the BGAV has a small window of opportunity – less than five years. This is the hour for meaningful change, not two or three years down the road. Either we become a movement or we’ll end up a museum. Personally, I prefer a movement.
Given the state of the BGAV, we cannot continue the current path. Doing the same things we’ve always done and expecting different results is irresponsible. With a new governance structure, we must work differently. We must think strategically and then act tactically. The BGAV must become a more entrepreneurial and missional association focused on planting, developing and sending. Everyone must work together on mission.
We can’t continue to rationalize or make excuses for decline. I’ve heard people blame decline on politics, post-denominationalism and the like. Plain and simple, organizational decline is the result of lost focus and mission. No more excuses Virginia Baptists; we’ve lost our focus. Let’s own up to it; let’s do something about it. Either you lament decline or you create a new future. I vote for creating a new future.
Personally, I can’t sit idly by and watch further decline. I can’t hope for change, wait for change or even talk about change, if I’m not willing to jump in and be a part of change. As a key stakeholder, there is responsibly. This is a stewardship issue. I pastor a large church which provides significant financial resources through our association. Several years ago, I called for key leaders to step forward and recently repeated that same call earlier this month. I can’t ask others to be involved, if I’m not willing to get engaged. Hopefully my willingness will encourage others to participate.
I believe in the future of the BGAV, but our conversation must be about mission. Don’t tell me your “label” or camp identification, I could really care less. Put your litmus paper back in its container and your “party” hat back on the shelf. Instead of trying to figure out where someone is on the spectrum, tell me how you’re living out God’s redemptive story every day. We need to think differently as Virginia Baptists.
Here’s my heart. The BGAV can use a new energy and voice at the table. I’m willing to be a part of the conversation, but more importantly, I want to engage a new and focused mission with every Virginia Baptist living sent. Let’s make it happen; the gospel is too important.
I support your decision
We are with you and praying for you Brad!
Wow. Talk about putting your mission where your mouth is.
I so much agree with your statements about putting our party hats and litmus tests asside Brad. If we can’t get on a higher plane than the political dialogue of our day then we will be casualties of the win lose mentality that is destroying our ability to accomplish anything as a nation. Go for it Brad.
Your message last Sunday of “living with a sense of urgency” really resonated with me. And last night the devotion at Cool Spring volleyball was on “living out God’s call with exuberance”. It made me completely rethink the approach I take to “serving” within the church. I used to think “serving” meant stepping up to fill a position that needed to be filled but not wanted by many others. But God calls us not to just take up space in his name, but to make an impact for his kingdom. Your passion for making an impact for the future of VA Baptists is evident and your heart to serve is filled with urgency and exuberance. You would be a great choice!
Great decision. What can we do to help? Who votes? Will contacts to them help?
I appreciate all the comments and encouragement! The Annual Meeting is November 9-11. The BGAV will vote on officers on Wednesday, November 11. Each church registers a certain number of messengers based on financial criteria. We will send 15 messengers (max number) and these are the individuals who vote on items of business brought before the association.
Thank you for raising the bar, encouraging us to come along side you, and then standing on the bar! We are thankful for you.
Marty,
Thank you for commenting! Appreciate your support! Together, great things can happen in Virginia Baptist life.
Another great leader marshals the troops to take action!!
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Amen and Amen! Need new voices, fresh voices. Thanks for your willingness to serve. Whatever the result, may the clarion call of your words resound.
Joey,
Thanks for the encouragement and comments!