This is the last day of the congress. It has been fun and edifying and long and intense, but now we need to get back to the real world!
I have loved soaking in Ephesians the last few months, and especially opening each morning of this congress by listening together to God speak to His Church through Ephesians. Such an amazing, deep, rich book.
This morning was appropriately focused on partnerships. Partnership is hard, and it requires a death to self- that we would die to power in order to see others advance the Kingdom together. Edinburg in 1910 showed an imbalance of Westerners, but the 21st Century does not “belong to Asia.” Asians can make the same mistake that Westerners made in the past.
We need to push for a true global equilibrium. We have to work together. There is no one single center of Christianity. It does not help to speak of the “center of gravity” existing in the South. Jesus is the center. We all have a wonderful story to tell. The day of the single superstar is over.
This congress has been very multicultural and very diverse, yet I feel we can have true, long-lasting friendships that inspire us to work together to “reconcile the world to God in Christ” (2 Cor. 5:19).
Lausanne III has been a profound experience, and I am grateful for the networking that I feel will benefit the partnerships I belong to. Getting everyone involved in engaging unreached people groups is what it is all about.
Personally, I have see God answer two prayers for myself; that he would enlarge my vision of himself in Christ, and that he would enlarge my heart for sharing the gospel with the people among whom I serve. Amen. Thank you Jesus.
Appreciate your wrap-up, and thankful that participating in this event was worthwhile and encouraging for you - what a great opportunity. Hope you're able to bring some inspiring words and helpful perspectives back to those who serve with you in your host country.
ReplyDeleteI'm eager to watch those partnership videos as they get posted!