Liturgy: Anticipating the Kingdom (Knowing Jesus as King)
"Love the Lord your God..."
There is a reason for liturgy. The ancient traditions of the Church remind us that we have a part in an ancient story: the story of God moving, and people who have moved with him.
Liturgy helps us locate ourselves within that story as a community. Participating in the Liturgy of the Church reminds us that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves - it helps us look forward to the time when the Kingdom is fully realized here on earth.
Gifts of the Spirit: Celebrating the Kingdom (Knowing Jesus as Teacher)
"...with all your heart, soul..."
The Spirit's major gift to the Community of God is that He works in us to help us to remember and obey the teachings of Jesus. All of the Spirit's gifts are tied to this concept and are designed to encourage the church and serve as a witness to those who are still finding their place in God's Kingdom.
This is realized in the community setting by singing songs, praying together, reading scripture together, sharing with each other, hearing the story of God together, and participating in Communion together.
Evangelism: Proclaiming the Kingdom (Knowing Jesus as Savior)
"...mind and strength..."
Evangelism isn't about converting people; it's about proclaiming the Kingdom in the way we live our lives. It's about a life-style choice. It's about choosing to live our lives differently.
The word "evangelism" comes from the Greek meaning "gospel" or "good news" It is therefore about demonstrating the presence of the Kingdom in our lives. If the Gospel is the Gospel of the Kingdom, then "evangelism" is about living as a Kingdom People.
Therefore, evangelism is closely tied to...
Social Justice: Building the Kingdom (Knowing Jesus as Friend)
"...and love your neighbor as yourself..."
We are Jesus' friends if we do as he commands. And what does he command?
Love each other. This means fighting for justice for the poor and oppressed, feeding the hungry, visiting the sick and lonely, loving the unlovely, and practicing acts of mercy and compassion in our daily lives.
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