The Thing About Movements

If you want to kill a movement.

Institutionalize it.

Make it the norm.

Get people comfortable.

Movements are like kites, they need a wind to rise against.

Movements tell a different story than what is being told.

Movements require an antagonist.

If you look at movements in history, this is a common thread.

Jesus sparked a movement of love against the backdrop of a fallen world.

America was a movement of freedom against the backdrop of a monarchy.

Rescue Missions are a movement of generosity against the backdrop of poverty.

But.

If you want to ignite a movement.

Don’t just find an enemy.

Find a cause.

A rallying cry.

A better story.

Fix your eyes on it.

Advance in that direction.

And don’t stop.

When you encounter some wind.

Grin.

Because it’s not just resistance.

It’s traction.

And you’re on your way to becoming a genuine movement.

Just make sure you’re moving in the right direction.


2 Responses to “The Thing About Movements”

  1. Johnny Laird April 28, 2009 at 5:01 am #

    Loved this post, Jason.

    Really spoke to me….particularly as a member of The Salvation Army

    Thanks

    Grace & peace

    J

  2. Jason April 28, 2009 at 5:53 am #

    Thanks Johnny.

    The story of the Salvation Army is a great example of a movement.

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