By Cara Garrity, Development Coordinator
Lynn, Massachusetts, U.S.
Missional engagement is intentional involvement with our neighbors so we can announce and demonstrate God’s kingdom. How can we equip our Love Avenue teams for missional engagement?
The ministry of the Love Avenue is more than hosting activities and events in the neighborhood. It is about being discipled to live lives sent to witness to Jesus and his kingdom. It involves developing a missional posture — the approach and attitude that Jesus has sent us to participate in his mission to the world in our neighborhood. It involves developing missional rhythms — ongoing, reoccurring habits and activities in neighborhood spaces to facilitate relationship-building.
It is being transformed and compelled by the love of Jesus for our neighbors. Missional engagement involves the participation of our being as well as our doing. We must receive the transforming love of Jesus into our personal lives so that we have Christlike love to share with others. It is about receiving and sharing.
Equipping Love Avenue teams for missional engagement can transform Love Avenue ministry. It can both support and challenge us to think beyond isolated activities to missional rhythms. To live sent in all matters of life is about connecting relationally and pointing to Jesus, and this must be the heart of the Church in its gatherings and activities.
GCI has many resources to support you as you equip Love Avenue team members. Below are some resources to get you started.
Reflection Questions:
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- What would it look like for the Love Avenue team to be equipped for missional engagement? What is one thing the team can commit to this year?
- What would it look like for the Love Avenue team to be equipped to disciple others in missional living?
