In the last post, I spoke about the author Arias but not Costas. The chapter we read on Costas focused on evangelization and mission work. From the reading and discussion my mind began to fire thoughts linking the functionality of the gospel, the Spirit's role, and how this ties in to the work that is being done here in Arequipa.
A quote I recently posted on facebook was from Costas. The quote covers basically the function portion, and the Spirit's role. The quote is as follows:
"Evangelization involves persons and communities working for the transformation of their respective life situations. Any person or community who cannot give evidence (through the efficacy of love (service, taking action)) of a transformed life is not capable of evangelizing others".
I liked this quote because it states "working" not worked or has already transformed, indicating that Coastas recognizes that transformation is an ongoing process, however it is a process that must be taking place continuously, otherwise those that claim to have "it" or are done transforming does not understand the purpose of evangelizing.
Costas continues with stating that, "To participate in the transformation of one's life situation implies, first and foremost, having experienced God's grace, forgiveness, restitution, and liberation for service." There are those that wanted to transform peoples lives but not allowing themselves to be transformed (I was one). I did not the true meaning of forgiveness, restitution and liberation for service because it was based on my puny mortal power. I was stuck in a box because I was focusing on the wrong things. Therefore my idea of transforming other people's lives was just me wanting to create duplicates. I did not truly understand and experience transformation until three years ago and I am still transforming. It is difficult to push past old habits and what I consider "safe" tactics that does not serve any purpose but causing self-alienation.
Any who, my transformation was able to begin when I sat down and let God do the work in my life and in the lives of others. Yes, I can share, encourage, support and practice accountability, however it is not my power or how "good" I am that will transform people, it is the Holy Spirit that allows for one to come into contact with the Creator. Costas states, "The Holy Spirit enables men and women to hear God's voice both personally and collectively, and allows them to respond to God's call in creation, history and the (human) conscience. The Spirit breaks barriers and facilitates the communication of the Word of God, seeking and finding lost people. The Spirit opens their ears that they may hear God's saving message."
Now is and was the kingdom of God hidden? Yes and No, it was revealed and spoken about through Jesus' parables however, it took a while for even the disciples to get it. But if one were to look at the big picture of the Messiah's life (I am still talking about Jesus the Christ, I just wanted to switch it up), Jesus lived among those he was discipling (sp?). He taught through his teaching and lifestyle which embodied the very model of being holistic. Read the whole book of Mark.
As I am here I see that CUDA (Christian Urban Development Association) forms relationships with those that are "under-sourced" (term used by Greg) to share the Kingdom of God. Hence their vision of "justice, well-being, and joy in the city" leads them to "promote physical, psychological, social, and spiritual well-being through projects in the areas of education, health, finance, and the environment." Check out their website for a more accurate description about what they do at: http://cudaperu.org/About.aspx.
CUDA also makes sense of the the Kingdom of God being active through their developmental initiatives. (Even if giving/lending clothing and items to an intern in need. THANKS LARISSA!!!!!!!! #Shoutout)
I have heard some people say the church is the kingdom of God and I will have to respectfully disagree because the church is at most times an expected hot mess (we are all sick humans seeking healing) and the Kingdom of God is no,t however, the church should constantly pursue the goal of reflecting the kingdom of God. The church=the body=followers of Christ should want to create communities that demonstrates the holistic mission and love Christ had when on earth.
Did any of that make sense?
