There are many ways in which we can all take responsibility for the edification of one another. Here are some point to ponder, if you would like to take your responsibility for the Body of Christ more seriously
- Know the history of the congregation with whom you are worshiping. Before any of us can feel a part of a community we must understand its history. A community’s history is a strong compass for present decision-making. It is a compass, not an obstacle. We must use past experience to inform present decisions, but not to stop us from moving forward. Talk to experienced members.
- Be in touch with the mission of the church community. We must be familiar with the mission and purpose of the congregation. The purpose and beliefs of the congregation are the foundation for the church’s mission to the world. Do you know what St. Andrew’s mission is?
- Pray, pray, pray. Prayer is the single most important connection we have to God, to God’s will, and to our direction in God’s kingdom. A congregation steeped in prayer, committed to prayer, and living in prayer is a strong, healthy congregation able to give back to the world.
- Name the good that you see happening in the Church. Too often people are quick to gather together to talk about everything that went wrong, that was misprinted, or that someone forgot to do. We are creatures attracted to the negative. Christ, however, calls us to be transformed into new creatures, controlling our tongues is one way to do this. So practice looking for positive things you see happening around the Church; it can be contagious.
- Believe that God is alive and in charge. It is, after all, what we profess to believe. If God is alive, why are we so fearful about the world around us? If we believe in a living God, then we must practice trust in the power of that living God.
- Forgive, forgive, forgive. Forgiveness is what has allowed each of us to claim our Christianity. It is also the hallmark of the Christian ethos. If we are going to follow Jesus, we must truly forgive those who have transgressed againsus. Our own forgiveness depends upon it. “Forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us.”