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Mission
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we are too pleased with ourselves.
When our dreams have come true
because we dreamed too little.
When we arrived safely
because we sailed too close to the shore."
“Start by doing what’s necessary;
Then do what’s possible;
And suddenly you are doing the impossible.” - Francis of Assisi
What is mission?
God called Abraham to the high purpose of becoming a "blessing to all nations of the earth." (Genesis 12:3) This remains the mandate of God's people.
Even before Abraham, God promised One who would overcome evil and its roots and effects in the world (Genesis 3:15) and Jesus invites us to follow Him in His mission.
The mission of Jesus, and therefore ours, is a 'love and rescue' mission taking people from the oppression and bondage of the evil one into the Kingdom of God's righteousness and grace.
Our Call to Mission
brings focus, hope, confidence and perseverance in difficulty to our lives.
Hear this call through some of Jesus' followers who have impacted me greatly:
Amy Carmichael - the cry of blood
Dietrich Bonhoeffer - the cost of discipleship
Ruth Haley Barton - our true vocation
It is highly valuable to put into writing your current understanding of your life's mission.
Arenas of Mission - there is almost endless need until Jesus returns including:
Evangelism - introducing others to Christ
Helping friends grow as disciples of Jesus
Loving your Muslim neighbour
Developing missional communities (aka church planting)
What about the role of the local pastor?
The
effect of Christ's Mission on Social Transformation
Healthy Balance - in it all it is important to stay healthy in body and spirit, maintaining a balanced rhythm of life to finish well.
