Discovering Mission In Community
OPENING PRAYER:
Gracious God, open my eye to the discovery that purpose and mission as a Christ Follower is to live as a witness in the community of faith, together shining your light into the darkness.
But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Acts 1:8 (NIV)
REFLECT:
So much of writing in modern Christianity is focused on the needs and concerns of the individual believer, with little more than a quick glance given to the greater fellowship. It should be noted that the words of Jesus in the Acts 1 passage above, includes the word, “you.” “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you…” (Emphasis Added) The original language makes it clear that the “you” is plural and inclusive of all of those assembled. When the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost, his power came to the entire group, with his presence resting on each individual life. God’s intention has always been for us to live and serve his kingdom in community. I love the following words of Dietrich Bonhoeffer:
"Christianity means community through Jesus Christ and in Jesus Christ. No Christian community is more or less than this. Whether it is a brief, single encounter or the daily fellowship of years, Christian community is only this. We belong to one another only through and in Jesus Christ." --Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Life Together
A Pathway Church slogan I have grown to appreciate is: “Life is better together!” So much more can be accomplished as we fellowship and partner in ministry side by side. God never meant for us to serve him as just a bunch of individuals. When I was a young, I loved to watch Saturday Western TV shows. One of my favorites was, The Lone Ranger! Of course, these were all filmed before my time, but they lived on in syndicated TV. The Lone Ranger roamed the west in search of damsels in distress and little people whose lives were traumatized by bad guys! “A mighty hi-ho Silver, away,” was the ending trademark as he went in search of a new adventure. It was a hugely popular show for folks, and especially kids like me. But God never intended for his people be “Lone Rangers!” I mean, even the Lone Ranger had Tonto. Think about that as you consider God’s call in your life, as his witness to the world.
APPLY:
Take some time to assess God’s call in your life. Then stop and consider if maybe there are a few other likeminded people who would join you in Kingdom service together. Take the step, make a call, watch for God’s leading to share the Good News as a witness of his love and grace, with fellow believers.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Lord, please open our hearts today to be open to your Holy Spirit.