The vision of ‘MissionsNow’ is to look again at ‘being church’ rather than simply ‘doing church’. So what does that mean for a community of believers such as ours in this privileged and untroubled corner of North America? On the surface, the church does so much, is involved in so many aspects of life, and there are many opportunities to serve, both in Kelowna and beyond.
“How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them? And how can they preach unless they are sent? As it is written, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!" - Romans 10:14-15
But as we each take a look at our own lives, are we individually fulfilling the command that Jesus gave us in Matthew 28:19? Do we have a burning passion to see our neighbours, this city, this country and the world won for Christ?
We are seeking to follow the example of the early church and purposefully develop a missional worldview and lifestyle that is built around Acts 1:8?
“We live here and serve here; yet we also go and serve there. For the most part the church has innovated her Sunday morning into worship and programs. Its time to go deeper. We must innovate the real purpose and be true to the DNA of the church and a transformed life”. - Bob Roberts ‘Glocalization’
2005 saw the start of an annual Missions initiative in Kelowna with the aim of bringing the Great Commission challenge to our region. The inaugural speaker was Dr Tony Campolo. Last year, Dr Campolo returned along with David Nasser, Greg Paul, Angelina Atyam and others.
This year, Bruxy Cavey, Greg Paul and Joyce Rees will challenge us to engage in the plight of the poor, marginalized, the oppressed and those who simply have never heard the name of Jesus – both in our backyard and beyond.
In addition we hope to have 30 different missions organizations represented in the ‘Missions Marketplace ’ on March 6th at the MissionsNow Rally.
Once again, many churches – or should we say, ‘The Church’ of Kelowna is coming together to strategically set aside a week of the year, committing ourselves in unity of thought, prayer and action to reach our city, region and world with the love and message of Jesus. The theme is, “...Prayer & Justice...”
