So how do you start a new church?
Shaina and I have read books, talked to planters, observed successes and failures and our strategy is a pretty simple one.
No one in the 20 and 30 something context feels like they have tons of free time...
So the best thing we can do to connect is enter into normal rhythms with others and form relationships.
Let me put it this way.
We have 21 meals in a week if we don't skip any (or add any!) So does the person down the street, the neighbor, the co-worker, the guy from the coffee shop. So why not reclaim those for the kingdom?
Our most effective means of building the church is through building relationships.
So, Shaina and I have someone over for dinner every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (or what starts happening along the way, is we get invited for dinner on those days sometimes too!)
It's nothing earth shattering. It's not a new idea. Jesus ate with people. He ate with sinners. He ate with disciples. So, we have been trying it out.
The dinner table is where connection happens for us. Stories are told, hearts are opened, dreams are shared.
I would never go to an informational meeting to some group that I am barely connected to. But I would have dinner and connect and when I feel connected I begin to want to be invested. It's that simple.
How can you participate in the Kingdom of God? One meal at a time.
So shut the tv off. Get to the table. Invite a neighbor over. Cook something that isn't terrible or awkward. And go where God leads.
You'd be surprised how many people eat dinner.
2 comments:
So what are you cooking for dinner next week? :o)
So profoundly simple and absolutely effective!! In our recent move, God has directed me to bake and take a plate of 'sweet treats' to each neighbor in an effort to 'connect'. Christ has again modeled the perfect example to gather, befriend, and begin to love folks. And Ben... you have a distinct advantage since you married 'martha stewart'!!! God's best and greatest blessings be yours. Love you so much.
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