The Leader Letter

Playing the Long Game

Written by Nate Flynn | Feb 17, 2026 2:28:43 AM

 

Dear Leader,

When I began this journey with Man in the Mirror in October 2018, I knew this was not a short-term commitment.
 
My prior career was in law enforcement, primarily as a School Resource Officer. I spent 11 years building relationships, honing my skills, and establishing trust within that assignment. Around the five to six-year mark, I noticed a shift: My effectiveness grew, the value I was able to bring deepened, and my instincts and understanding sharpened.
 
The next several years were fruitful because of the time, energy, and intentionality invested from the start.
 
That experience shaped how I think about ministry. Shortcuts are rarely the answer, and building anything sustainable or worthwhile requires an investment. Often, lasting impact means planting seeds we may not immediately get to enjoy.
 
As Man in the Mirror celebrates 40 years of ministry, we're also looking ahead - investing in the next generations in ways that matter and last. In this month's post, and throughout this year, I want to encourage you to embrace a mindset I'm calling "Playing the Long Game."

In Christ,

 

 

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