The tone of God’s work in the world gets transposed at the beginning of Acts. Up to this point in the story of God (the life cycle of Israel and the ministry of Jesus), the focus was on “come and see” – see how Israel lived a God-infused life, come Jesus’ call to see God at work in the lives of those on the boundaries of Israel, etc. But at the beginning of Acts, the tone shifts from “come and see” to “go and tell.” From it’s beginning, this new chapter (called the Church) in the story of God has been about going and telling. As God’s people in the world, our lives are proactive in sharing the work of God. As you consider how to love your neighbor today, remember that our DNA as the church is one of initiative and proactivity, not one of hesitancy and passivity. Make that invitation to lunch or coffee, ask your neighbor what you can do to help them out, serve them without expectation of response. When you do, you stand in a long tradition of “going and telling” while simultaneously being a part of the brand new work God is doing in the world.

Questions or discussion? Click here to comment.

Tomorrow on the Daily Connection: Who Is My Neighbor?

About the Author
Isaac Gaff is the Managing Director of Worship and Creative Arts at Calvary UMC