Last night we prayed over empty chairs in our dining room.The event was our Agape meal. That's where the committed core of the household come together to renew their covenant vows.
We are conscious that while there is a healthy group of covenant members living at the community house, the number of covenanted members we have living in their own homes is relatively small.
We do have some very committed non-resident White Stoners, they help minister in meetings, bring life and joy to the household, evangelise, provide practically in terms of transport and finance, ground us in reality and support the vision. However, perhaps of necessity, much of the work in this growing church is taken on by those who live full-time in community. We need to expand our base.
So, there we were, praying over the empty chairs at our dinner table; asking God to provide what we cannot create.
It was a symbolic moment and one I look forward to coming into fruition.
Would you be so kind as to explain what you mean by "much of the work in this growing church is taken on by those who live full-time in community. We need to expand our base."
ReplyDeleteIs it just the way the work falls?
Basically. Yes. People usually come round the community house first. A friend might have introduced them or they might be intrigued after a conversation on the street. But that means their strongest Christian contact is likely to be with someone in the community.
ReplyDeleteAs our non-resident membership increases, hopefully their activity will increase.
A useful example of an active member who doesn't live in community is that of a student who is been around. She was first met by a member who doesn't live at White Stone, and their relationship has been the key link for the student being involved in church life.
Gotchya, understand the context now Tash. Thank you.
ReplyDeleteTash, I was just thinking, that the priority of a leader was to be a servant to those one leads. To be the least of them, and thereby serve.
ReplyDeleteA servant to them?
No offence meant.
A useful reminder, thanks. What brought it to mind?
ReplyDelete(BTW the 'T' at the beginning of my name is silent as in "Tzar".)
I had guessed it was a silent 't' but somehow 'scash' didn't feel right :)
ReplyDeleteAs for the other :- y're asking a logical question, and I don't have a logical answer. The best answer I can give is 'experience' :)