small things
Over the past few years I have reached a humbling conclusion – the typical church has huge walls. Not the type with brick and mortar, but just as effective in keeping those outside out. They also keep those inside from seeing those on the outside. Such walls are formed and cemented through extreme emotional and organizational inward focus. Ironically, the Gospels are full of stories that call us to be outward focused and to reach our community with the life and love of Jesus Christ. ÂÂ
The problem is that most of us who call ourselves Christians are so busy with day-to-day living that we may be unaware of the needs outside the walls of the church. Most church members seemed puzzled about how to help and serve those who are not interested in the ‘Church.’ÂÂ
Jesus Christ clearly stated what the church is to be about:ÂÂ
“’Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’â€? (Matthew 22:37-39). God’s Word is clear. God wants the church to see outside its walls. God has in mind a church that would be ever-increasing in heart and size. It should be the ‘Church Without Walls.’ In the classic passage, commonly known as the great commission, Jesus Christ shares the simple elements of his heart:ÂÂ
“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. So wherever you go, make disciples of all nations: Baptize them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Teach them to do everything I have commanded you. (Matthew 28:18-19).ÂÂ
For the past year, I have been reminding my church community that ‘We exist to love this city into relationship with Christ.’ It is not nearly as hard as we might think. We need to only take a glance at our community. Mother Teresa once said, “It isn’t necessary to move to Calcutta to do something significant.â€? ÂÂ
I agree! There are so many people in need all around us, if we would only stop to look. Can you imagine if we stopped and asked if there are any single parents where we work that might have a need? Is there is a disabled child in our neighborhood? Perhaps there is a family we know that cannot afford medical insurance? These needs and a myriad of others cry out to be met!ÂÂ
One gift that God has given each of us is the gift of ‘servanthood’. How incredible it would be if we used that gift to reach out to our community with the love of God! I have adopted the belief that ‘small things done with great love will change the world.’ I also have come to realize two corollaries: first, there are unlimited creative ways to share the love of God in Christ Jesus and second, it only takes a few people to make a big difference. ÂÂ
Tomorrow, Sunday, November 19th the Church Without Walls will launch in the Inland Empire. Don’t miss your chance to be part: www.iechurchwithoutwalls.com