From listening to loving

IN the last issue, Lesley Hamilton-Messer started this series by exploring ‘listening for mission’. This means giving careful and prayerful attention to your community. ‘Community’ might refer to a geographical area, but could equally mean a network of people who share an interest, need or concern. ‘Listening’ involves observing, researching, praying, discussing, discerning … to seek a deeper understanding.

Listening is the first stage of The Loving-First Cycle.

This ‘cycle’ has emerged from the lived experience of mission across the UK. It is not a blueprint or a roadmap. Rather, it has arisen from what has been happening and observed by people actually involved in mission. It reflects how the Spirit has been leading people.

Some aspects of the cycle need to continue throughout the whole cycle, especially ‘listening’ and ‘loving’. However, we know from research that has monitored many real-life examples over the years, that the latter elements of the cycle rarely happen effectively until attention has been given to the earlier aspects. The different parts of the cycle are not just stepping stones to a destination. All are inherently valuable and pleasing to God.

As we engage in listening for mission, we begin to realise ways in which we can share God’s love. This might mean recognising particular ‘needs’ and seeing ways to respond. Think of the many ‘warm spaces’ that opened in response to the escalating prices of energy. A need was noticed and churches responded. As we respond in loving service, one thing leads to another. A means to save money and keep warm leads to conversations, friendships and, invariably, other opportunities emerge.

Whilst listening can highlight immediate needs, it can also reveal deeper issues that contrast with God’s desire for justice. This might lead us into campaigning or direct action. These too are a way to channel the love that God puts in our hearts. Churches that get involved in food banks or community larders, for example, often find that a deeper awareness of the factors that lead people into poverty leads them into challenging and tackling underlying issues.

Imagining our listening as being a search for needs and injustices sounds terribly negative! We also notice many assets, positive qualities and opportunities. As we pray and discuss, we may be compelled to build on the positives. One example, is the growing number of churches realising the benefits of the natural environment in their area. Even small areas of outdoor space can provide a chance to take seriously Jesus’ command to observe the birds of the air and the lilies of the fields.

From Shetland to the Borders and in many urban areas, examples of Forest Church have been developing. These provide ways of introducing people to, and nurturing them in, Christian faith.

Do you want to be inspired and encouraged? Two short, recent videos show how listening for mission leads to loving action … and how faithfully responding to one opportunity leads to others.

Renew26, Penicuik: https://vimeo. com/736559519/db4ba1595e

Newton Parish Church: https://vimeo. com/736537134/6671adae49

If the idea of using the outdoors has grabbed your attention, here is a video from a Forest Church training day: https://vimeo. com/720604043/f529f98030 ¤

Looking for help? The Mission Development Team exists to support as we participate in God’s mission and this Loving-First Cycle: FaithNurture@churchofscotland.org.uk