I have been reflecting recently on my involvement in the various churches I have belonged to over the years, and I realise how much that has varied with different seasons of my life. There doesn’t seem to be a simple linear progression through the various stages of a Christian’s journey through life and there is certainly nothing automatic about it.

A few years ago I attended a Christian ministry school and heard the word “intentionality” for the first time. I kind of rolled my eyes! But I can see from my own life, if we are not intentional in our quest to become more like Jesus, we can begin to drift. There’s grace for the drier times but how much more fulfilling are the seasons of growth and enthusiasm!

Now in some seasons I would say my main focus was on activity – learning and doing. But in other seasons I had to let go of doing and just “be”. That was hard, but I realise now that what I do for God is much more effective when it comes from who I am in Him. This is about formation, learning His ways in relationship with Him – letting His character rub off on ours. Then we can avoid the pitfalls of performance and perfectionism and times when we may look for identity in what we do for God.

The Missional Discipleship & Pastoral Care Team (MDPC) developed a “Discipleship Pathway” last year. Here’s a little extract -

A Christian Disciple is someone who follows the teachings and ways of Jesus, being transformed daily to gradually become more and more like Him.

Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”                                       John 8:31-32

The Christian’s Mission is to demonstrate the love of God and to invite others to follow Jesus and become His disciples, equipping them to walk in His teachings and ways.

“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.”               Matthew 28:19-20

Wherever you are on your journey, whatever season you find yourself in, we want to encourage you to engage wholeheartedly – firstly with your Lord & Saviour who knows who you are, inside out, and secondly with each other. I have had lots of special people share bits of my journey. I couldn’t have done it without them! Learn and serve together with others. Find those who will love you, accept you and encourage you in your faith. And you do the same for them.

There is always more in Jesus!

God's best,

Janice