I’m convinced in most cases a “both/and” solution trumps an “either/or” solution. But life constantly presents us with seemingly “either/or” cases. Someone recently asked me if they should take on a new responsibility that might interfere with family commitments. Another person had strongly warned them to decline. But I recommended taking on the task, while establishing and communicating boundaries that would preserve the priority of family.
Along this same line of thought, some people think that the church will only be effective if we “get outside the walls.” This implies that what goes on “at church” is not as important. But the reason we go out is to bring people in. Jesus makes this point in the parable about the feast. Luke 14:23 reads, “Then the master said to the servant, 'Go out into the highways and hedges, and compel them to come in, that my house may be filled.” What’s the point of going “out” if there isn’t anything to invite them into? Street ministry and personal evangelism is meant to work hand-in-hand with a healthy church that quickly integrates new people into a community, or family, of faith.
New Day is committed to reaching out. We regularly participate in events and activities that are designed to enable us to connect with our communities. But we must also have a vibrant weekly service so that people can “plug in” and get relationally connected throughout the year. Once people become connected and integrated, it establishes long-term relationships that lead to transformation. That’s sanctification, the process through which we are made more Christ-like, and it is dependent upon being integrated into a spiritual community.
Serving is key. We need EVERYONE who attends New Day to be active in some role in church. This adds value to your experience because you are actively contributing to the mission of the Church, not merely coming as a spectator. It also adds value for guests, as they see the commitment every member demonstrates. And it communicates your appreciation for every other person who is serving. Church services are called services for a reason—it is a time when we all come together to serve one another, our community, and the Lord. When we serve the church, we are serving Jesus, because the Church is the bride of Christ.
I encourage everyone to find ways to contribute, both on Sundays during the services and throughout the week. When we take responsibility and work together with our fellow believers, it builds deeper and stronger relationships. It also positions each of us for growth and increased responsibility and authority. In the parable of the talents, those who used their talents well were given more. Let’s all commit wholeheartedly and believe that God has much more in store for each of us as well as for New Day as a church!