The old paradigm, the old way of doing mission, was to sponsor a missionary, the “expert” who was deployed to a distant land to proclaim the Gospel.

In our post-modern world, we have re-discovered that the mission field lies right outside our red church doors. There are even signs above those doorways, or in the parking lot testifying to that reality. We search our souls, and we know it to be true: we cannot defer this part of our baptismal calling to those who are “qualified.” God has already equipped us with everything we need to release our spiritual gifts. Our family of Joy will grow a little larger this Sunday, as we gladly welcome new members. Yes, this influx will increase our budget and give new life to whatever ministries they may choose to affiliate with. If they are new residents in our community, their presence will be the presence of Christ.

Our life in Christ is not about programs and committee meetings. These will always be necessary for supporting and transforming the community, not just Joy Lutheran Church. At this point, I should stop and acknowledge two men who have contributed to this new awareness in my faith. The first is Dr. Phil Baker, Professor Emeritus of Missiology at the seminary I attended. The second is author and minister Reggie McNeal, who has rocked my world with two of his books, Missional Renaissance and The Present Future. They get it. The church needs to change. The church needs to return to its purpose of mission. Our failed adventures in missing the point have caused us to forget how this whole thing got started. It is tough, hard work; make no mistake. But our God who loves us unconditionally will also not leave us alone to be effective witnesses to the Good News of Jesus Christ. Especially in the moments we spend outside the church!

Pastor Art