A Value to be embraced...

One of the core values in the Missional Ministry Project that we are initiating in our context has to do with embracing and cooperating with other people who follow Jesus and are aligned with the Kingdom of God. Instead of taking the posture of antagonism, suspicion, "us vs. them", or theological/practical arrogance, we understand that the "differences" between those of us who align ourselves with the "Lutheran brand" and all the "others" are insignificant when placed alongside of the call of Jesus to embody the Gospel in our time and in our place with love, grace, and spiritual integrity. Yes, there are differences that we can "discuss" and acknowledge when we are in conversation among ourselves evenso, as far as the culture is concerned arguments and debates among churches over who is "right/wrong" is purely "white noise". It is meaningless...in other words, our theological debates might be important to US but the world isn't listening. So, we take a stance seeing other followers of Jesus as allies in the battle...pure and simple, we find ways to understand and pray for those who are attempting to build up the Body of Christ and faithfully be ambassadors of the truth.

My friend, Dr. Scot McKnight, posted this on his blog today...it is important to know how other followers of Jesus "live" and understand their journey in the kingdom of God. You might not "agree" with everything that this has to say...actually, that's good if you don't. Understand though - as you enter into community with other followers of Jesus, that you grow...instead of being so busy pointing out that which separates us intellectually and doctrinally, we need to concentrate on our common Lord and our common passion to embody the grace, mercy and presence of Jesus in and through our lives. Not much is completely appreciated about Orthodox Christianity within those of us who are of the "protestant" bent...we need to know and understand more about these brothers and sisters. See what you think!