We have always lived in a divided world where differences exist among one another. Every four years, we have an election that surfaces the many differences we have among us. How do we reach out and show the love of Jesus in our world where so much division exists? Do we give off mixed signals that keep people from hearing the gospel?
I can get fired up about certain topics and especially during the political season. I want everyone to agree with me, think the way I think and vote the way I vote. I do not understand why people do not think the way I think and see what I see. Those who do not agree with likewise wonder why I cannot see what they see and think the way they think.
I remind myself as a pastor that Jesus did not come to take sides, but to take over all of life. This means we have a greater cause than politics. We have a calling to love one another as Jesus has loved us. We are called to love our enemies and do good to them. Jesus taught us to bless our enemies and pray for them. We are given the Great Commission to make disciples of all nations.
As pastors and church leaders, we know partisan politics is a minefield where the potential for conflict and division is off the charts. I serve a church in a neighborhood where many do not vote the way I vote. They do not watch the same news shows I watch. The worst thing I can do is minimize the gospel and the call of Jesus to love one another. If I am more passionate about a partisan political issue than the gospel, then I am sending mixed messages to the world around me.
I want my congregation to reach into our neighborhood and community so that all will hear the gospel and experience the love of God through His people. I want this ministry called Still Waters Renewal to reach pastors and church leaders regardless of our political differences. We are a non-denominational organization seeking to minister to all church pastors and leaders who need a place to get away for a time and experience healing and rest.
Check out our 2021 retreat dates. We offer this ministry at no cost to the participate. We are also looking for ministry partners who will support us financially. Pray for us and point others to our ministry.