Recently I joined other denominational leaders at a conference. I was struck by what our speaker said about our ability to work well with each other to bring about Christ’s Kingdom here on earth. It reminded me why I found a home amongst the Brethren. There is a stream in western Christianity that teaches that the faith of a person is private, something just between them and God. While I do not deny that our faith in God is deeply personal, I believe that faith is best when expressed through the relationships God gave us in his Church. We need each other. We need to be connected, not working or journeying alone.
This will not be a natural inclination for the Brethren. Most of us desire a spirit of humility and simplicity. Drawing attention to ourselves or toward others is not something we do. But we must overcome that. Andy Stanley said, “what is celebrated is repeated. The behaviors that are celebrated are repeated. The decisions that are celebrated are repeated. The values that are celebrated are repeated.” Celebrating our work together will go farther than any motivational sermon or speech ever could.
So please celebrate the work done in your local congregation and community. Please share in celebrations with your regional teams and other churches in your area. If you see something that needs celebrating, please email communications@brethrenchurch.org.