September 25, 2006
by Mickey Noel
Each morning most of us have as a part of our normal routine, taking a look in the mirror to make sure everything is where it is supposed to be and that it is as presentable as possible. We view this as neither egocentric nor eccentric, merely an appropriate reflection on our “appearance” as we begin the day.
Churches, like people, need to engage in appropriate reflection on our appearance periodically. The focal points may be slightly different, but the issue is the same. You see, every church has an “appearance” that is subject to scrutiny and evaluation by everyone. Those inside her community may get a closer and more regular look, but those in the host community outside her are also regularly observing her. How does the church look? What are her activities? What’s important to her? What differentiates her from others?
We may be tempted to focus on the easily observable issues of order, neatness and the overall physical “look” of the facility that houses the church. But just as we understand that the person in the mirror, is much more than physical appearance, so the church must see herself as much more than a physical facility and an institutional organization. These are merely “housing” for the organism inside.
The people of Jesus ought to have readily discernable features that identify us as His disciples living in community together. As such we should evidence His character and His priorities. Are we demonstrating that we share Jesus’ values by our behavior? Can we readily show how we are engaging in Jesus’ mission to help the “lost” find God? Do our individual lives align with Jesus’ revealed will for His followers? Do we understand the importance of unpretentious incarnational living among our family, friends and neighbors?
When is the last time your church community underwent some kind of comprehensive assessment of your alignment with Jesus? What did you discover in this reflection? Probably most importantly, what are you doing in response to this reflection? Our Lord promises to bless His followers who engage in His mission (Matthew 28:20). Those who do not engage in His mission do not have that same assurance.
Ministry experience demonstrates that every ministry needs to periodically look in the “missional” mirror. As folks look at us, what do they see? Are we a community that readily shows off our Christ-like character and priorities? Or does something obscure those attributes?