All tagged community

Sticks, Sandals and the Spirit of God—Lessons from a Journey of Faith

Sticks, Sandals and the Spirit of God—Lessons from a Journey of Faith

Courtney Farley
Discipleship

As I’ve spent time sitting with the story of Jesus’ sending out the disciples, I feel a sense of urgency to take seriously not only the humility, trust and faith of the disciples but also the compassion, awareness and hospitality of the countless communities that received them along the way. I pray that you and I, in whatever our ministry may be, will be ready to respond with the trust of the disciples on the journey, and to show up with the compassion of the disciple who invites the stranger to become a friend.

Loving Our Communities

Loving Our Communities

Anessa Westbrook
Church, Culture

In order to evangelize in a way that is responsive to our communities, we need to place ourselves in the role of learners, entering into a two-way dialogue. We need to practice both observation and active listening. We need to listen without judgement as we seek to understand what others are saying, feeling, and doing.

What is Intergenerational Ministry?

What is Intergenerational Ministry?

Wilson McCoy
Church

Intergenerational moments go beyond this mere sharing of the same physical space. These experiences occur when the pews turn into circles, allowing different generations to engage deeply with each other in meaningful ways. Instead of simply co-existing in location, there are opportunities for real connection, conversation, and contribution from every age group.

I Knew Better

I Knew Better

Amanda Box
Discipleship

When I felt the nudge to check in earlier, all I wanted to do was see how they were doing. I didn’t have a list of action items or suggestions for the girls. I just wanted this mom to know that I cared, but my silence communicated just the opposite. The silent treatment is always the worst communication plan.

Pregnant Women Need You!

Pregnant Women Need You!

Steven Brice
Culture

As Christian leaders, we understand the importance of caring for the well-being of all members of our community, particularly those who are vulnerable and in need. The disparities in maternal health outcomes for women of color demand our attention and action.

It’s Like This Verbal Jesus Was in the Room

It’s Like This Verbal Jesus Was in the Room

Amanda Box
Culture

It occurred to me that it’s hard to get to know people on a Sunday. We are all in the same building, but rarely does the Sunday structure allow for in-depth conversations. Worship is the priority, of course, but those in-depth conversations are gems of connection and inspiration. I wish I had asked my parents and grandparents to share their stories in this manner.

Growing Smaller

Growing Smaller

Casey Lankford
Church

For those who still struggle with isolation and battle a never-ending sense of loneliness, I encourage you to find community, more specifically a small community. Find a community where simply showing up, checking a box, and leaving isn’t an option because your community won’t allow it since they love you too much. This is a defining characteristic of the Kingdom of God and of the church.

We Know Not What We are Doing

We Know Not What We are Doing

David Kneip
Discipleship

What do I not know about my sin? Every time I sin, it is like a rock that is thrown into the middle of a body of water. A pebble makes small ripples, while a boulder makes big ones. My sin may not seem to be an undersea earthquake that causes a tsunami… but the ripples are undeniable, and it is impossible for me to see them all.

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