Vision 2030

“…looking to Jesus, the founder

and perfecter of our faith, who

for the joy that was set before

him endured the cross, despising t

he shame, and is seated at the

right hand of the throne of God.”

Hebrews 12:2 ESV

Viewpoint: Vision 2030 is a plan created by the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia in April 2016 to promote change in the kingdom. These are the goals of the vision: to have a vibrant society, a thriving economy, and an ambitious nation. They aim to reach these goals by offering a fulfilling and healthy life, strengthening Islamic and national identity, growing and diversifying the economy, increasing employment, enhancing government effectiveness, and enabling social responsibility. The plan is to diversify the economy so that it is not dependent on oil as the sole source of income. They are also trying to make Saudi Arabia a more open and inviting place for the world to come and see.

Some things that have already taken place because of Vision 2030 are: women can drive, more women can work, and women can hold government positions and vote. Saudi Arabia has hosted Formula E races, concerts, and WWE wrestling matches. They have opened national heritage sites for people to come in and tour, as well as opened movie theaters. All of these things may be good for the country and the economy, but what would it look like if the whole nation of Saudi Arabia turned its eyes on Jesus instead of having them fixed on the material things of this world? As the song says, “Turn your eyes upon Jesus, look full in his wonderful face, and the things of Earth will grow strangely dim in the light of his glory and grace.”

Prayer points: Thank God that the government of Saudi Arabia is making these changes and wants its citizens to live better lives. Pray that the rulers and authorities over KSA will one day very soon, even before 2030, turn their eyes and focus them on Jesus, and the whole nation of Saudi Arabia will worship only Him.