Getting it done...time, time, time

Anyone who knows me knows that I am a stickler for scheduling and planning.  From my days in the business realm while I preached on weekends (“part-time,” so-to-speak) to now in “full-time” preaching, I utilize “flex” planning in scheduling to the “ten-second rule” (take ten seconds and address something right then—you’ll be amazed how much you can get done). 

Recently, I was reading Forbes magazine (Nov. 2012) about Jack Dorsey.  He is the CEO of Square, which makes the device that turns a smart phone into a credit/debit card machine.  An overview of his schedule was presented, so I thought, hmmm, how can I learn a little something? 

Of course, I am going to keep my “flex” planning within.  “Flex” planning might have only one thing on the schedule, but there is “flex” time for whatever arises.  Still get the daily plan done…and a few other things as well, or of the daily plan doesn’t get done, I’ve got some flex coming up in the next two days to complete it.

Now, back to Dorsey…initial reaction, I thought how it could be profitable for a minister of the gospel?

Sunday, Dorsey thinks about strategy and conducts job interviews.  Sunday, allow our preaching to present the spiritual strategy we need to press onward and accept responses (‘interview”) to help bring one closer to Christ.  Be certain to meet (“interview,” so-to-speak) our guests and welcome them.  “Interview” the members you’ve been missing with a quick greeting; check on the folks who have been ill. 

Monday, Dorsey says, is for addressing management issues.  Great opportunity to evaluate Sunday, the notes you’ve made from above; review plans to be made and refresh and organize the week.  Plan your visits or make one or two; some outside correspondence.  Just a general day to really implement the “ten-second rule” and address other opportunities.

Tuesday, Dorsey focuses on product engineering and design.  Yep, sermons.  “Hunker in the bunker” of the “war room” and go at it.  Of course, to do both sermons on one day is pressing a bit too much, but remember the “flex” of your schedule on the other days.   

Wednesday Dorsey zeros in on marketing and communications, and growth.  Yep, correspondence, bulletin articles and concluding some sermon work.

Thursday he holds meetings with outside partners and developers.  Yep, Bible Studies with prospects; some good visitation with members.  And, might be some “flex” time for some off time in developing self with a little rest or developing one’s health with some exercise or hobby time.  Never know when you might run into that one person with some interest in the Lord.

Friday is about “company and culture” and recruiting.  Yep, Bible class preparation; some invitations others; a few things to “promote” the “company” (the church) and to develop and enhance our “Biblical culture” even more of knowing the word and growing in His grace and knowledge (2 Pet. 3:18).

Saturday, Dorsey takes off; in particular he likes to hike.  Yep, rest….time for family and “getting away from it all,” crossing our Lake Gennesaret, if you will.

All of us as ministers are always looking how we can more efficiently serve and effectively use our time.  Maybe there is something here for that “little extra” one is looking for.  Have at it…and thanks for joining me...in the Wildwood.