I remember singing a song when I was a kid that had the lyrics, “Let there be peace on earth and let it begin with me.” Those words hit me as right: if I expect peace on earth, well then I better bring peace.

Apparently this sentiment seems right to a lot of people. A great variety of artists have performed this song—Gospel music singers, Country-western performers, pop musicians, school choirs—they all get it that peace starts with ‘me.’

A newspaper reporter once asked theologian G.K. Chesterton what’s wrong with the world today. He replied in writing:

“Dear Sir,
I am.
Yours,
G. K. Chesterton”

The world is not messed up because of some nameless problem out there, it really has problems because everyone adds to them regularly. As we are thinking about transforming the corridor, it might be tempting to point fingers at people “out there” and overlook our own need for transformation. Transformation begins when disciples of Jesus grow closer to Jesus and continues when disciples of Jesus reach out to others with the love of Jesus.

As mentioned last month, this vision of transformation is actually back to the basics. We are called to make disciples who make disciples in the everyday stuff of life. We “go make disciples” (Matthew 28:18-20) and when that happens, transformation happens.

Disciples love God deeply, love self properly, and love their neighbors boldly. I pray that if you have not yet caught the excitement of the possibility of transforming the corridor that you will simply draw near to Jesus. As you love Jesus more, you will love each other more and it is that love that makes all the difference.

Starting in September, we will explore the vocabulary of transformation. This exploration will help us understand a biblical vision of transformation and, I pray, fuel our mission for years to come. We can all grow by engaging in large group celebrations of corporate worship and gathering with a small group that is on mission. Large group celebrations shape us through
gospel-centered worship and small groups create safe places for relational connection and missional living. Life transformation emerges out of both!

The Lord be with you,
Pastor Kent