There's a phrase said around here that church doesn't "stop" in the summertime like it does in many congregations. I understand the sentiment. Most institutions seem to place everything on hold for the summertime, as if ministry does not take place during the hottest days of the year, as if ministry takes place at the beaches and pools of the world for those who can enjoy such vacation.
Many of our guests at BSM don't have the luxury of "stopping" for the summertime. In case you didn't realize, there is no summer vacation from homelessness! If anything, things tend to pick up around here, as people seek a place to drop in during the heat of the day. Not to mention the bursting out of the Youth Initiative, which draws in youth groups for weeklong mission experiences.
However, something must be said for the intentionality of sabbath time. Although ministry never ceases, all people must find time for reprieve. Things slow down a little around here in the summer. Programs need time to re-assess, people need time to recharge.
As for me, I've been in an interesting state of recovery and re-discovery. I'm recognizing that i'll be travelling for most of the next couple of months and my time at BSM and ASPC will be limited. This is bitersweet indeed, but also compelling as I seek how I will continue to develop my pastoral identity at Union Presbyterian Seminary (just changed their name today!). More wrap-up reflections to come...
In the meantime, I've been continuing the work of helping build community and developing our "open table" groups at BSM as a means for connecting one another. It's hard work, but important work. Discipleship emerges out of the relationships we build with one another. This is the task we are called to.
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
living good news
The root of the word "evangelism" is "good news." The breakdown of this world in our culture is centered around what exactly this "news" is. For some, this news is an afterlife of paradise upon acceptance of Christ. For others, this news is more centered on the present life, a hope for "better times." I don't believe Christians will ever come to consensus on what it means to "evangelize." The word will continue to feed megachurches who use it solely to build numbers. The word will also continue to scare away many people because of how it has been used coercively.
I believe the breakdown with "evangelism" occurs when we turn it into a mathematical formula, when we view it simply as methods to get people in the doors of church. If we view the gospel as the good news, we must begin to view evangelism as relational. By this, I mean good news becomes self-evident once we get to know each other authentically and once we make room for those on the margins of society to be known. Christ is made evident in our relationships.
This view of evangelism has been the blessing and challenge of working at BSM and ASPC this year. I have really enjoyed witnessing the opportunities given for people to know God and know one another more deeply. People from every walk of life are given room to explore faith together creatively and authentically. All are empowered to love and serve one another as Christ calls us.
However, the nature of this work is the challenge. The first author in this article says "it isn't that hard." I would take issue to say that if it isn't hard, you aren't trying hard enough. The work of "making visible the kingdom" requires a lot of sacrifice. Creating room for relationship building means we must be willing to deal with those who are different from us. Creating room for relationship calls us to make opportunities for people to have a sense of belonging in the work of God.
Both venues have been exploring this throughout the year. They recognize the importance of breaking down barriers and drawing people in, yet constantly face the challenge of how to draw people into community.
It's not easy...but who ever said the work of God was?
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