It is good to reflect on our personal strengths, weaknesses, vulnerabilities, sins and opportunities from time to time. Corporations periodically do something like it too and call it a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats). Young parents will often take time in the summer to consider new or better ways for their family to launch into another school year strong. Thriving churches prayerfully review the vision and effectiveness of each of their ministries at least annually.
A few years ago, a church leadership network where I am involved spent time in a similar reflection specific to the disability culture in their churches. Each of us did a personal review of the state of priorities, values, and offerings in our churches as it related to ministering among those impacted by disability. Then we discussed it together, sharing insights and aspirations about how God might lead our churches into more Christ-like caring and greater fruitfulness. The group also prayed together for the churches represented.
“I pray that your love will overflow more and more, and that you will keep on growing in knowledge and understanding. For I want you to understand what really matters, so that you may live pure and blameless lives until the day of Christ’s return.”
The tool we used proved helpful in taking an honest and vision-refining look at things. So, I offer it here. My prayer is that it spurs some meaningful reflection among leaders and pastors that strengthens their churches as places of belonging for individuals and families living with disability. Perhaps it could even serve as a discussion-starter for an upcoming staff meeting.
Photo credit: Kindel Media on Pexels.com.
Read through each statement while prayerfully considering the state of your own church culture. On a scale of 1 to 10, indicate to what degree each statement describes your church right now (1 = “does not describe my church,” 10 = “very closely describes my church”)? Ask the Lord to build awareness and reveal opportunities to grow in Christlikeness as leaders and churches.
TIP: Answer each question in the order it appears. Some questions may seem similar, but they are actually different. Allow the progression to offer inspiration.
My church is passionate about equipping people to be disciples of Christ and actively engage in using their gifts for Kingdom purposes.
My church is passionate about leading people with disabilities to Christ.
My church helps people with disabilities experience Christ.
My church is fully accessible to people with physical limitations (e.g., mobility, vision, hearing).
The Gospel is easily accessible to all people who visit my church, regardless of their ability.
My church helps young people with disabilities develop a personal relationship with Christ.
My church helps adults with disabilities develop a personal relationship with Christ.
My church fosters friendships between people of all abilities and helps people with disabilities find an inclusive community of belonging.
My church is passionate about equipping people with disabilities to be disciples of Christ and actively engage in using their gifts for Kingdom purposes.
People with disabilities, from youth through adult, are purposefully included in engaging their gifts through service within and through our church.
Disability ministry is a program at my church where individuals and families impacted by disability receive love and services.
Disability ministry is a way of life at my church where individuals and families impacted by disability receive love and services.
People in my church minister equally to one another, whether they lead “typical” lives or have a disability, mental health difficulty, aging related challenge, or complex medical condition.
My church community approaches disability ministry as an integral part of the way we do life together as the family of God.
My church is passionate about including people of all abilities in worship.
My church ensures that people of all abilities are included in fellowship activities and life groups.
My church prays regularly (e.g., from “pulpit” during services, through prayer teams, on prayer chains) for people with chronic health and developmental issues, even when there is not a current “crisis.”
People with disabilities, mental health difficulty and chronic health conditions feel safe to receive prayer at my church.
My church sees to it that every aspect of the local church experience is realized in the lives of people with disabilities and mental health difficulties.
My church is actively learning from individuals and families affected by disabilities and mental health difficulties, and everyone is better reflecting the heart of Christ as a result.
“Is there any encouragement from belonging to Christ? Any comfort from his love? Any fellowship together in the Spirit? Are your hearts tender and compassionate? Then make me truly happy by agreeing wholeheartedly with each other, loving one another, and working together with one mind and purpose.”
Almighty God, let our reflections yield inspiration, not discouragement. Show our leaders and faith communities how to be of one mind and purpose in working alongside people with disabilities and their families. It is our desire and delight to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with You. Empower us, by Your Holy Spirit, with Your vision and equip us for Your Kingdom-building work, Lord. AMEN
Lisa Jamieson is a caregiver consultant, pastoral counsellor and author of popular books and Bible studies including Finding Glory in the Thorns and Jesus, Let’s Talk. Lisa and her husband, Larry, live in Minnesota with the youngest of their three grown daughters, Carly, who has Angelman Syndrome. Together, the Jamiesons founded Walk Right In Ministries in 2008, a non-profit organization building faith and community with special needs families.
