Going into 2009: Part II by Damien Howard

Going into 2009: Part II

I echo my brother’s sentiment, i.e. “global dynamics are shifting fast and with these changes have come significant challenges.” As a beacon of hope and inspiration, I pray that the church (proper) will respond to this shift (and accompanying challenges) in a way that brings glory to God our Father. 1 Peter 2:12 reads “live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”

Efficient stewardship of our resources is key. As we commit in 2009, to living lives that are intentional about representing and glorifying God, we must ask ourselves the following question. How am I managing my TEAM?

T- Time
E- Energy
A- Attention
M- Money

My prayer is for the Christian community to stand up to mediate and morally guide the changing global dynamics of our time. During the civil rights era, Dr. King transparently told his followers that some of them would be jailed during the movement; he went on to admit that some would even die. Martyred, Dr. King gave his life for what he believed was “good.” More importantly, Jesus Christ gave His life for what he knew was “good” for you and for me.

The “good life” according to Peter’s theology is a life of suffering and submittal. As we take our voyage of submitting to God and suffering for the cause of Christ (as sojourners here on Earth) we are communally trekking towards holiness. This may not be perfectly achieved while here on Earth, but we must use our resources in a way that we continually strive towards that one goal; i.e. Holiness. What seems “right” or “good” to us is certainly despicable to others. They will certainly call us names and may even attempt to inflict bodily harm. However, in 2009, though the persecution may rise, though vitriolic accusations will continue to be hurled in the direction of the Christian community, we must continually manage our TEAM in a way that brings glory to God our Father, nurture to His children, and even personal joy! As we align our TEAM management plans with the missio Dei, transformation will occur. Beloved, I am excited about our future!

[Specific Application of this exhortation will differ for each reader. Prayerfully, take inventory and commit to managing your TEAM to the glory of God in whatever specific ministry (or ministries) He has called you to.]