We’ve all done it in the classroom or on the playground to break into groups or teams. We hear the count off “1, 2, 1, 2, oneeeeee, 2. Some share their number fast or slow, loud or soft, with excitement or with trepidation. Through it all we get assigned and we find our match. With our partner we use our varied gifts and knowledge to accomplish a goal set before us.
Membership is a word that has been used for a long time in the church and for some, this word means “privileges.” Because I’m a member, we expect to get benefits or something in return. However, for those who are not a part, well, they don’t receive. In the world and in the
Church, that’s not how God works. We know from scripture that God is about welcoming, sharing, and including everyone. Jesus often sought out the marginalized, maligned, forgotten, left behind, and those just flat out not included. At CtK we prefer to use the word “partner.”
“Partnership” at CtK talks about the mission and ministry we engage in together. We strive to work together and be inclusive. One of the phrases we like to use at CtK “There’s always room for one more.” We intentionally welcome. We intentionally share our gifts that God has blessed us with to work together to proclaim the good news, gospel message of Christ crucified and risen! Our Triune God calls us to endeavor in ministry together. Because we have been blessed so generously by God that our response is to share with God and one another freely. It sounds simple, but in practice it can be hard to take time, to portion out, or designate first to volunteer or give back. God has given us all that we have (James 1:17), and when we partner together, we see God’s love come to life!
At the end of the month, we have a New Partners Class to welcome people who wish to partner with us in ministry together. Tuesday, November 29 at 6:30pm – call the church off if you are interested or have questions (920) 788-6492 ext 100.
Christ’s Blessings & Peace,
Pastor Nate
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