Big Impact takes Big Energy

So Merica and I are really praying that 2009 will be the year of action for us. We have some amazing ideas that we are attempting to move from ideas to reality. Personally, I am going through my departments at church and taking risks in every area. This year I would like to impact more people for positive life change than I ever have. The problem that I am facing is that making large impact really requires a large amount of energy. I am very quickly learning a few things...
1. When you try new things, people want to help. It gets them excited too, so allow them to carry the load. I always fear that I am going to ask too much of people, so I seldom ask. This may be the case if we are simply doing the same old stuff. But if it is something that is actually making a difference, they really want to help so I need to let them.
2. I have also been reminded of my days working construction (4 months of torture). I did learn a lesson though that there is ALWAYS something to do. I wasn't allowed any "down time" because small things could always be done. I have to use my time wisely in order to make things more excellent.
3. I don't have time NOT to pray. I have to stay connected to God. I have to practice intentional spiritual disciplines. Anne Jackson is coming out with a book next week that speaks to the epidemic of burn-out in America (specifically with church staff). I don't want to be in that category.

Let's all be more excellent this year and increase our efforts to make a positive impact in our world.