Reflection I
I am the good shepherd; I know my sheep and my sheep know me—just as the Father knows me and I know the Father—and I lay down my life for the sheep. I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also. They too will listen to
my voice, and there shall be one flock and one shepherd… But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. (John 10:14-16; Acts 1:8)

The church is the only organization in the world that exists not merely for itself, but entirely wholly and utterly for those outside it. Jesus, who is the head of the church, demonstrated this time and again throughout his ministry. He was deeply concerned not merely for the protection and provision of those who were a part of his spiritual family on a mission but for those outside it as well. His message of forgiveness, hope, compassion, empowerment, liberation, welcome and sacrificial love was open to everyone. All need to hear and listen to Jesus’ voice of truth calling them to find their true identity in their covenant relationship with him. It was the Holy Spirit that descended on Jesus at his baptism and rested on him; that was the power source of his ministry that enabled him to lay down his life daily for others.

The early church was imbued with that same Spirit, which would empower them to well represent Jesus, starting where they were, and advancing out into the world. Jerusalem was their theology of place where they were called to make a difference. Missionary zeal was one of the hallmarks of the early church as they went out into the world to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God and respond to the needs of the community around them.

In reflecting upon these themes, what are the population and ministry targets for your effort?
Specifically, for whom and where are you trying to make a difference?

This is the first of five devotionals intended for reflection published by the North Central California Presbytery as part of the Connectional Revitalization process. We invite you to share your reflections with us by emailing pastor@parkviewpc.org and pastoralresident@parkviewpc.org.