A word from Jamie Rogers, CMBA Associational Missions Strategist:
Here we are beginning a brand-new year. New Year’s offers a chance for all of us, including your congregation, to step back and gauge how faithful we’ve been over the past year. Have we done what God has called us to do, and have we made new commitments to fulfill His purposes better in the coming year? We ALL have room to grow and take our next step.
With this list I want to remind you that your congregation really does matter to God. It matters in His vast Kingdom. You matter to the Kingdom, too! Below are 10 reasons why you should recommit yourself to playing the role you have within your congregation this upcoming year, and to remind you why your church’s vision, its mission, and your role in both is so vitally important.
1) Your congregation’s address isn’t a mistake. I think it was Sam Rainer who said this, and it’s worth repeating. When God planted your congregation, He knew what the neighborhood would look like right now, and He wants your congregation making a difference where it is. You aren’t there by mistake!
2) Your congregation carries the gospel to your neighborhood. This goes along with #1, but the reason your congregation exists where it does is to carry the gospel to those around where your congregation meets.
3) Your congregation makes disciples together. The primary task that God has called your congregation to is making disciples. This should include every single member, including you. Are you playing your part in this important endeavor?
4) Your congregation is to be a visible representation of Christ to those around where you meet, live, and work. It is not a question of whether or not we represent Jesus as His Church, the question is what kind or representation will be offered?
5) Your congregation is needed for spiritual encouragement. Hebrews 10:24-25 tells us that there is a point to your congregational gatherings. I recently read a book for my studies that said there is “something powerful about regularly meeting with the people of God.”
6) As your congregation accomplishes God’s purposes, it will be an inspiration to others who may be struggling. Other congregations in our Family of Churches need your example. They also may need your help. Are you ready to help when they call?
7) Your congregation can help another congregation accomplish its mission by joining together for an outreach. God loves seeing the larger Church work together. Mission trips are great! Have you ever thought of taking one across town to help another congregation reach their neighbors? This is where being a part of an association is such a blessing!
8) Mutual encouragement. The Apostle Paul told the church in Rome that he couldn’t wait to visit them so they could all encourage one another. When is the last time you gathered with your congregation because you couldn’t wait to be the biggest encourager?
9) As you gather every Sunday, be reminded that you serve a risen Savior! The early Church first met on Saturday, the Jewish Sabbath day, but then shifted to meeting on Sunday to serve as a weekly reminder that Jesus is alive. What a thought to have as you gather with your congregation each week.
10) It’s God’s weekly reminder that He longs for relationship with you, not for His sake but for yours! No matter what your week has been like, there is something special about being called back together again with other brothers and sisters that God desires every day to be with us!