In the last Leading Mission Tip, we explored the meaning of the phrase “Christ’s Mission is our Mission.” A primary concern of Jesus was to alleviate suffering among the people of his time, to balance the scales between the wealthy and the poor of his society. I promised that the...
“Christ’s Mission is Our Mission” – If we truly believe this, then one of the most important questions to ask is, “What is Christ’s mission?” If we look back at what the Gospels tell us, we see that his priority was to bring the peace and love of God (“kingdom...
We’re back with “Leading Mission Tips” — designed to help congregations find avenues for pursuing Christ’s mission in their own community. The past few weeks have been for many a swirl of activity as well as upheaval. As many congregations face conflict of one type or another, this week’s LMT...
In the present divisive climate in the United States, we have been hearing hurtful words. Perhaps we need to address this at its roots, in our own hearts. Jesus said, “… what comes out of one’s mouth, that is what makes one unclean…. The things that come out of the...
Many congregations periodically have dinners, so this week’s Leading Mission Tip may be particularly welcomed. It’s called “Sharing in the Round,” which can include not only eating, but also reflection and conversation about how the congregation can engage further in mission in its neighborhood. Some possible steps could include these:...
Now we come to the last (No. 8) of the foundational principles of mission, in which we recognize that changing the culture (the collective perspective and traditions) of our congregation takes time. But every step taken in the direction toward mission will help. Let’s review what mission looks like in...
“No. 7: Mission is a unique expression of giftedness and calling. Mission emerges from our collective and unique giftedness and when we use our gifts for the sake of creating communities of peace and justice.” What does this mean, and how does this impact how our congregations operate? If we...
Leading Mission Tip — After a few weeks involving travel and enjoying grandchildren and grandnephews/nieces, I’m back with another Leading Mission Tip! I hope mission center folks are finding these useful; if not, let me know what I can do to clarify how congregations can become more missional, or any...
So after a (hopefully) relaxing and spirit-renewing summer, our congregations are gearing up for another full year of mission in their communities, and “Leading Mission Tips” will resume! As you may recall, before the summer hiatus we were looking at the 8 foundational principles of mission. To review, mission begins...
“Christ’s mission is our mission”! OK, so what was Jesus’ mission? Community of Christ has taken Jesus’ proclamation in Luke 4:18-19 as signaling his primary focus. Luke 4:18-19 records an event that occurred toward the beginning of Jesus’ ministry, when he went to his hometown synagogue (“church”) and read from...