living good news

BSM and ASPC (the places I'm working) were recently featured in Presbyterians Today.  You can view the article HERE.  I share some reflections:

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?