Intentionally Outward

[Jesus said] “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."  Matthew 28:19-20

Dear Friends in Christ,

Jesus said to his disciples “Go!” He only said “wait” for about ten days—telling them to wait for the gift of the Holy Spirit. But his larger commission to his disciples—to US—is to “Go!” And when they were filled with the Holy Spirit, out they went—to the ends of the earth! Jesus sends you and me out as well.

There is a difference between welcoming and inviting. Welcoming is good—we welcome people who build up the courage or curiosity to come visit us for worship or an event. But inviting takes our initiative—it takes intentionality on our part. Instead of waiting passively for someone to come to us to talk about God, we take the initiative to go to others, willing to share God’s grace.

The best kind of evangelism is the kind where we greet people as human beings (rather than prospective members)—human beings loved by God. Who are they? What is their story? Where is God in their story? Our curiosity about them and about God helps draw us to care about others. And in our care for others, we can share the blessings we’ve discovered in knowing and following Jesus. Listening to their felt needs, listening to their cares and hopes and joys, we can care for each person just as God cares for each person and wants the best for each and all.

This summer, whether you “go” out of town or “stay” where you are, answer Jesus’ call to “go” in conversation with others around you, both friend and stranger. Be curious enough and take initiative enough to inquire and listen and share and see how God works in that conversation through you. As Jesus also said in that same message “remember, I am with you always.”

Yours in Christ,

-Tom