The SIAFU Guidebook

146 The SIAFU Network Guidebook

10. We allow the flow of our members’ own heart concerns to dictate the outreach of our church and the expenditure of our resources.

11. We safeguard ourselves against building institutional traditions that no longer grow from the passions and commitments of the members themselves.

Cautions and Questions about Burden-Driven Ministry Several possible problems or issues may be raised about organizing one’s life together around the burdens of its members. We affirm the usefulness/significance of each body member’s heart concerns.

1. Do you organize around each individual member’s burdens, even if only one or two share that particular concern?

Answer: It is reasonable to assume that not every burden will be given outlet in a body with limited resources, monies, and people. No church has unlimited resources or people; each must choose what it can and cannot support. Members should be encouraged to articulate their concerns. But practically some burdens might have to be prioritized, or members may have to participate in groups which share a similar (not identical) burden. In addition, some people are moved in their heart to become involved in ministries which lie outside their training, qualifications, and resources. While we must strive to provide opportunity for all to pursue their burdens, we also should be good stewards of God’s resources to make our greatest impact. We have limited time and resources; we will have to decide which projects we can do, and when we can do them. We must make hard decisions, and not spread our efforts around so broadly that we wind up being ineffective at anything. Seek God, and move forward with what you believe God wants you to do.