‘The Church is not meant to call men and women out of the world into a safe religious enclave but to call them out in order to send them back as agents of God’s kingship.’ – Lesslie Newbigin
I can stun myself with the familiarity with which I attend to this vapor of a life (Jam 4:14). How quickly I allow my priorities, rhythms, and intentions to be shaped and formed thoughtlessly.
I can live as one unaware of their calling and mission.
‘Have you not known? Have you not heard? The LORD is the everlasting God, the Creator of the ends of the earth…’ Isaiah 40:28
Every Christ follower has been called out of darkness, into His wonderful light, and sent back out into darkness to be salt and light (1 Pet 2:9, Matt 5:13-16).
We move through school, work, church, our communities and relationships, and our tasks and responsibilities with only a faint sense that we have in fact been called and sent. As citizens of heaven we live in this world, but we are not of this world (Phil 3:20, Jn 17:16). We are sent as messengers of the King – who Himself was sent into this world (Matt 28:19, Jn 3:17).
Lord, You have called us to Yourself, and sent us back out. Help us live intentionally as we walk this life. Give us eyes to see You, hearts that respond, hands that move, feet that go, and lives that are steadfast in obedience. For Your kingdom, in Your power, to Your glory, and the good of the whole world. Amen.
Called and sent,
AB