Faithful Presence

On a walk a few days ago, I turned a corner to discover some large orange tulips literally shining in the sun.  They were sitting in a pot on a porch, and I could not help but go up the front steps to get closer. They were obviously planted in a perfect spot by someone who imagined beautiful flowers growing, had some knowledge about what tulips need, and was faithful to that knowledge.   

 

I have just started reading an interesting book, The New Parish, How Neighborhood Churches Are Transforming Mission, Discipleship, and Community by Paul Sparks, Tim Soernes, and Dwight J. Friesen.  I think the following statement (page 46)  rings true, however you are called to be present in this world.       

 

This brings us to our proposal for the new parish. It is simple. Follow Jesus into your neighborhood with fellow followers of Jesus. Allow the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ to form your imagination for faithful presence.  

That means taking your bodies, your location and your community very seriously as God in Christ took them. Faithful presence invites you to act on the belief that God is giving you what you need to be formed as disciples within your location.   

 

Imagination, belief, and a willingness to be present are a beautiful trinity that can allow our lives and others to be deeply rooted.   When we agree to take part and let our hearts be engaged, we take our place in the ongoing incarnation of God's love.  Imagine the beauty that can unfold, right before our eyes.