Vision

             Where there is no revelation, people cast off restraint; but blessed is the one who heeds wisdom’s instruction. (Proverbs 29:88 NIV)

 Where there is no prophetic vision the people cast off restraint, but blessed is he who keeps the law. (Proverbs 29:18 ESV) 

Quite a few of the translations of this verse use the word vision instead of revelation, and it’s not always specified that it’s a prophetic vision. I prefer the term vision but for the moment, let’s make the word prophetic wait in the wings. Back in 1776, about a third of the people in the American British colonies were in favor of the American Revolution. I don’t know what portion of the population advocated for the Civil War, but on both sides, there were clear visions of the future both if they won and if they lost. World War I was the war to end all wars, and World War II a great defense of freedom.

Think about the civil rights movement and Dr. King’s “I Have a Dream” speech. Or Kennedy’s goal to put a man on the moon. Think about the protests and riots of 2020. Think about high school pep rallies or the stuff leading up to the World Series, Wimbledon, or the Superbowl (forgive me if I missed your championship.) Or, consider what the Progressives of any philosophical ideology do so well. In every case, they paint (at least for the folks they’re trying to influence) a beautiful picture of a world that includes them. Often, they prey on those who are disgruntled or who feel marginalized (even if they aren’t.)

I won’t claim that the following characteristics of a vision that I found on the Internet are correct or comprehensive, but they provide food for thought:

                        A picture: a clear and vivid image of the desired future state.

                        A change: a contrast between the current situation and the vision, showing the need for

improvement or transformation.

                        Values: a set of principles or beliefs that guide the vision and the actions to achieve it.

                        A map: a plan or a strategy that outlines the steps and resources to reach the vision.

                        A challenge: a call to action that motivates and inspires people to pursue the vision.( The 5 Main Characteristics of a Vision | Melbado)

This is something that I think the groups listed above get, and the rest of us don’t. Politically, what is your vision of America? Can describe it using the five elements above? More importantly, what vision can you share about your faith with someone who isn’t of your faith?