[contentblock id=logan-ads]
I recently posted about the 3 needs for missional communities during the summer months. Summer provides a beautiful time for rest, enjoying summer fun with community on mission and a time of reflection.
We naturally are inclined to the first 2 of those 3, but I’ve discovered in others and myself that we tend to avoid taking time to do some reflection. Part of this is the church is typically pretty bad at celebrating and pretty great at critiquing. Both have their place, but need to be balanced by the other.
When we celebrate, we join the Psalmists in remembering the great work that God has done in our lives and in our midst. Our worship increases as we are reminded of God’s active presence and provision in our lives. It spurs our love for Him, confidence in God’s work in us and our love for others.
As you reflect this summer, here are 4 questions to ask to help you celebrate the evidences of God’s grace in your community.
1. What was the best part of your community this past season?
God loves to give us stories that make us smile, laugh, and remember with joy His goodness. Every community has experienced the goodness of God no matter the season they have faced.
Reflect on the stories of redemption, transformation, fun, joy, and God’s breakthroughs this last season.
2. How has a love for God increased in the people in and around your community?
It may be in a few individuals or it may be the whole community, but there is no doubt that a love for God increases around a community pursuing Him and His mission. Who have seen grow in their love for God and how have you? Have you shared that with them?
Reflect on how God’s love has become more tangible during this season.
3. How have people felt the love of God through others in your community this past season?
When the community becomes family you begin to see their gifts, time, energy, and emotions be used for the good of others. How have you seen God’s love manifest through the people in your community to one another.
Reflect on how the community has loved one another well during this last season.
4. How have those outside the community experienced the gospel as good news in word or deed over this season?
It may be one person or it could be many who have experienced the good news of Jesus Christ through your community. They may have heard the good news and seen it in how you serve others.
Reflect on how your community has extended God’s love to those who don’t follow God yet.
My Celebrations
As I look back over this last season and the community group that I’m a part of, I’m so encouraged by the community as a whole growing in their love for one another and love for others. I’ve watched people experience the gospel as good news for the first time, others finally feel comfortable in a Christian community, and the way our community serving me personally has blessed me.
We’ve grown into a family, increased in our love for God and His scriptures, and it has overflowed in our actions to one another and others.
The evidences of God’s grace are all around me when I look. It makes me wonder why I don’t reflect and celebrate more often. Brings a smile to me as I type.
I hope your reflections are a cause for great joy today!
4 Missional Questions as you reflect and celebrate God’s goodness to your community http://bit.ly/1n7Emrd via @logangentry #missional