We can learn from this approach. When we consider a new challenge, we often
think in terms of what we lack rather than what we already have. As a church considers what God has called it
to do, another basic step is to consider what has God already gifted us with.
In Farming Church, my colleague Mark Tidsworth
writes:
“One, God has already given us many gifts for
mission-congruent ministry. So, we believe God is active in everything we do as
a congregation. Therefore, we do what we are able to do, giving God the glory
for the gifts and capacity which allows us to do so. Two, God often provides
what we need when we step into the void, when we attempt greater things for
God.” (p. 54)
As you stop and take an honest assessment of your
church, how has God already blessed you?
There are people with gifts, talents, and resources. There is usually a facility that should be
thought of a gift rather than a burden.
There is a context into which you have been placed. There is wisdom and
experience that can be tapped.
In fact, if you want to make a difference in your
community, your church will want to look outside the church door and take a deep
dive into your context and learn all you can about the people, challenges, and
services already in play.
A process like Appreciative Inquiry is a good way
to look at who you are as a congregation and what you have been gifted to
do. Design Thinking can access the
creativity not only of disciples in your congregation but provide a way to
learn from stakeholders in the community. Asset-Based Community Development is
a way to reach out to those in your community and discover ways to partner to
meet needs.
In reality, God is already at work in your context
and has provided much of what you need to become the church God wants you to
be.
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