Let's have a conversation...
I'm old enough to remember the British Telecom TV adverts from my childhood, where they encouraged us to use our landlines because, 'its good to talk'. Of course none of us could have conceived at that time how the means of talking to others would multiply into a plethora of platforms, so that it seems we are now always chatting in one form or another.
But of course, there is talking and there is conversation. I still hold that conversation is a great gift, and even an artform. As I work through our current series on the Mission of Jesus in John's Gospel, I'm struck again by how much Jesus relies on engaging conversation to procure His ministry. Its as though Jesus knows something about the power of conversation, and the change and transformation, not to mention the sense of connection it can create.
For me, I would love to cast a vision for Erskine Parish Church being skilled at conversation, as part of our Mission. Let me explain what I mean. I think conversation can overcome disconnection, fear and hostility.
Some of the most historic peace treaties in world history happened at a table with a meaningful conversation. Its where we learn about, and hold space for one another. Today, it is no secret our churches are often disconnected from the surrounding community. I don't think that is true of EPC, but I would love us to continue explore 'a conversation' with our community, learning about what makes it tick and how we can best serve it.
I'm grateful to the Listening Service and Local Mission team who already work to do this in a very literal and helpful way. When I think of my own experience, my most profound spiritual insights and leaps forward have taken place through good conversation. My prayer is that we all grow together in conversation, with each other, the wider church, and of course our local community. Its good to talk, and when we really talk, sometimes things change for the better.
Yours in Christ,
David
The Brig - September 2024 Edition
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