Written by Laxmi Gurung, Ministry Apprentice
And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near. Hebrews 10:24-25
I went to the CCDA (Christian Community Development Association) conference in Los Angeles last year, and it was a great experience for me. Last week, I had the opportunity to go to the conference again, this time in Detroit. I saw people from all types of backgrounds come together and worship the Lord. I felt very blessed to be there! During our downtime, we had the opportunity to gather with the Hope Center community and share each other's observations from the conference. I appreciate that we shared our thoughts and supported each other, and I have learned a lot from those times.
How I felt during the conference this year was very strong and hard for me explain to anyone. As I mentioned, people from diverse backgrounds were there, but when I think about it, this is not a common thing for many communities that we live in today. I have experienced many churches separate from each other and refuse to talk with one another over a small disagreement or misunderstanding. I don’t think this sets a good example for non-Christian people.
My family members are not Christians, and for them it is hard to believe. If they see Christians separating and not having good relationships between each other, how can they believe in Jesus? We are making it harder for them to believe. Being the only believer in my family has been very difficult for me. It always scares me to think of my family not accepting the Lord. I can't even tell them about Jesus because they have been seeing bad examples of Christianity.
I believe that following Jesus is about coming together, helping each other, being there for one another, and having Jesus in the center of everything. It is not about separating from one another. If we believe in Jesus, we should be helping non-believers know Him and teaching them what the Bible is about. It is very important for them to know God.
Please pray for unity in the Christian community and for non-believers to come to know Jesus.
Mission Adelante Staff at the CCDA conference
CURRENT NEEDS:
- Are you interested in combining your love of the arts and disciple-making? Mission Adelante is launching Adelante Arts Community in January 2018 and is looking for volunteers to help! Visit www.missionadelante.org/arts for more information.
OTHER NEWS:
- You’re invited to the Mission Adelante Thanksgiving Open House November 11th from 2:30-6:30pm. Stop by and enjoy a relaxed afternoon at the Meeks’ home meeting members of the Mission Adelante staff and community, celebrating culture, and giving thanks for God’s faithfulness.