The starting point for beginning a ministry is to determine its theological values. The next step is to set a strategy. Movement for the sake of moving gains motion only, but moving purposefully on vision, mission, and strategy provides a road map for accomplishment. We must do what we can and know that, ultimately, it is the Lord’s will that is to be done. Proverbs 19:6 states, “The mind of a man plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps” (NASB). May we be obedient to follow His direction.

Recently, I attended a Dallas Mavericks basketball game with two of my sons. The arena was almost completely full and so I estimated there were about 17,000 people in attendance. As they played the game, I began to survey the crowd. The people represented a wide variety of nationalities—Asians, Africans, North Americans, Europeans, South Americans. It was as if the United Nations had suspended their meetings and made the Mavericks game their evening event. Also, there were people who, like us, could afford only the “cheap” seats while others sat much closer to the floor. Ordinary people attended the game, and even special guests attended, like the baseball Hall of Famer, Ken Griffey, Jr., who sat on the front row.

The thought then came to mind: “How can I tell these people about the love of Jesus?” Immediately, my missiological training rose to the challenge. I could respond as a missionary and then move the people toward their involvement with the “Indigenous Principles” missions strategy.