I have come to realize that tragedy and strife often cause us to reflect and re-evaluate.
I have had a bit of time to relook and reimagine life and faith. I have come to some kind of certainty that it is time for us (the Church) to have an honest conversation about the nature of our being and ministry. It is time for us to recognize and step up to the fact that the ministry and faith that we live and proclaim are not about our selfish needs and desires. As a Church, we are called to a higher purpose, a mission that extends beyond our personal desires and ambitions.
The concept of the Missio Dei, the Mission of God, should shape and guide our understanding of ministry and faith. It is a concept that transcends our individual aspirations and egos. When we truly embrace the Missio Dei, we come to understand that our mission is not about building our own kingdoms or satisfying our personal agendas. It is about participating in the larger work of God in the world.
As we reflect on the omnipotent nature of God, the Pantokrator, we must recognize that our ministry is not limited by our own human capabilities or desires. Instead, it is rooted in the all-powerful and all-encompassing nature of God. Therefore, our ministry should be conducted with humility and a deep sense of reverence for the authority and sovereignty of God.
We need to move beyond our own ambitions and desires and focus on serving others selflessly. Our ministry should be driven by compassion, empathy, and a genuine desire to bring about positive change in the lives of those we interact with. It is about meeting the needs of others, spreading love, and offering hope to those who are in despair.
As we realign our understanding of Ministry with the Missio Dei and the concept of Pantokrator, it is crucial that we reevaluate our priorities and motivations. Are we seeking to fulfill our own needs and desires, or are we committed to serving others and advancing the mission of God in the world?
Let us strive to embody the selfless and sacrificial love demonstrated by Jesus Christ, who came not to be served, but to serve. Let us commit ourselves to a ministry that is rooted in humility, compassion, and a deep reverence for the mission of God. May our actions and attitudes reflect the selflessness and transformative power of the Missio Dei.
It is time to call the church to order, to remind ourselves of the true nature of our ministry, and to recommit ourselves to selfless service and the mission of God.
I hope my random ramblings, at the very least, calls us to rethink and re-imagine our Faith and Minstry
Blessings