Today hundreds of churches in our state are participating in a one day focus on mission and outreach called "Operation In as Much". The name comes from a quote from Jesus (Matthew 25) who said that if we visit those in prison and the sick, give water to the thirsty, clothe the naked, take in strangers, feed the hungry, it's like doing those things for Him. Or something like that.
It was fun to drive around and find groups dropping off food baskets, pizza, cleaning up a neighbor's yard and giving out water, gatorade and snacks to bikers raising money for diabetes research. One group sewed holders to go on the walkers of residents at our nursing home so they could carry things with them.
Those who participated get it. Someone said the world won't care how much the church knows until it knows the church cares. When we in the church venture out of our holy huddles and go into the world with a heart of service then the doors open for us to dialogue with those we contact about our faith. Then those hungry to know the truth, those spiritually naked, those diseased by their sin, imprisoned by their hopelessness can meet and know our Christ.
And while I understand why the efforts of this day were organized across our state, I hope it serves as a catalyst for more of the same. This kind of endeavor should be happening repeatedly, almost spontaneously without provocation other than the Spirit inside us. It should be part of our DNA.
Let's hope today reinforces that.
For some great ideas on things your church group or family can do, visit this site. Get out there. Be on mission. Just do it.
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In the church that my husband and I have just made a decision to become a part of in the past couple of months, this concept has been dubbed "Missional Living." Perhaps that is a buzzword name borrowed from somewhere, I don't know. However, much is geared toward the concept, with everyone encouraged to become part of a small group based on geographic location of the area in which they live. Groups are strongly encouraged to become aware of needs in their neighborhoods, becoming the "hands and feet of Jesus". The church puts its money where it's mouth is and groups can apply for "Missional Living Grants" to assist with the cost of projects that require funding. This is not a one-shot project, but a lifestyle that all people associated with the church are encouraged, no...expected, to adopt. We are excited by what we have seen and experienced so far.
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