Why are we here? As this is written, we are about to begin a new year. To set goals and to make resolutions, you’ve got to know where you’re headed. At any time of the year, it’s good to take a hard look at your purpose and to reconnect with it.
Re-Engage in the Mission of the Church
the United Methodist Church article recently published an article entitled: “Re-Engage in the Mission of the Church.” To read it, click the button that’s below. Whether you’re an active member of PUMC or if you’re kicking the tires and wondering what it means to have a relationship with God through Jesus Christ, we all need to “re-engage” in the true mission that God has laid out for us. Whatever your station in life, we’re all on a journey.
UMC Article: Reengage in Mission
The Church’s Mission…
If you’re an active United Methodist, you can probably recite our official mission statement by heart:
The mission of The United Methodist Church is to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world.
“Make Disciples for the Transformation of the World.” Familiar words to many of us, but what does that mean? The above article goes through it point by point, but here are a few things to consider:
- “Transformation” is a deep and positive change which brings about a fuller and more abundant life.
- The Gospel really is Good News, not threats of “fire and brimstone.”
- This offer of a deeper life in Christ is available to ANYONE.
- PUMC’s purpose isn’t simply to bring people to our church. Our purpose is to bring people to Christ, regardless of what church (if any) they attend.
- The goal is to partner with God to make disciples of Jesus Christ, not “disciples” of a church. Sometimes churches fall into the trap of being so busy pointing people toward the church that they forget that their job is to point people to Jesus.
Everyone’s Mission…
We all need to re-assess our life’s goals and to “re-engage in our mission.” Whether you’re an active church member who’s busy planning events to reach out to others, or if you’re someone who has no church and is struggling with your own connection to God, we all need to wrestle with the question “Who is Jesus Christ and what does that mean in my life?” Is there some way to experience a deeper more meaningful life if I connect with this Jesus somehow? Can I worry less and love more?
The answer is a resounding “Yes!”
But how do you do that? God has given us things like The Church (not simply PUMC- Jesus’ entire flock), the Bible, prayer, and good friends to help us make that connection. God loves us and wants us to have a deeper more fulfilling life. Our mission as human beings is to use those tools consistently and grow into a deeper relationship with our Creator-God. And then, we’ll want to share that connection with others.
Let’s continue that journey together.
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For more about how PUMC is engaging with our community, click this button: Neighbors
