We are blessed to be part of a Global connectional church. Today’s post is a recent message from our Indiana Conference Associate Director of Leadership Development for Laity and Discipleship.
The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you! When I try to make sense of all that is going in the world today, I keep coming back to the imagery of a groaning world. The pandemic, political conflict, unjustified killings, and civil unrest are all reminders of the brokenness of the world. They are also reminders of the need for Christ’s reconciling work and the continuing movement of the Holy Spirit to redeem all of creation.
When we see the images and hear stories of brokenness and injustice, it is right to mourn and to feel righteous anger. At the same time, we have the hope of the promise that all things will be made new. God has recruited us to be agents of change in the world as we live in the image of Jesus. Mourning and anger remind us of what ought to be and should motivate us to take action.
We are all called to use the gifts we have been given to partner with God in the mission to make disciples of Jesus for the transformation of the world. The transformation happens little by little and person by person. However, sometimes dramatic movements of the Spirit happen in moments of desperation when people will see what they have not recognized before. I believe this is one of those times. As such, it is up to the people of God to reach out to the scared and lonely, work to bring justice to communities, and meet the needs of the most vulnerable in the name of Jesus.
This work will look different in today’s circumstances, but it is just as necessary as it has always been. Take time to identify the needs in your community, especially those that have long gone unmet. Open yourself to making new friendships with those that God has put in your path and be ready to share the difference that Jesus has made in your life. There are many searching to make sense of the times. We must be ready to show them Jesus, who offers hope and healing.
R.C. Muhlbaier, Assoc. Dir. of Leadership Development – Laity & Discipleship
