We came from the suburbs. A cosy family church that met in the lower level of a small hotel. Sweet friendships, sweet fellowship, and all of the comforts of Christianity; motivational classes, pot lucks, and Christmas pageants. It was beautiful and and I loved it. What I didn't realize at the time was that we were wrapped in a cocoon of our own making that distanced us from the challenges that some face when they preach the gospel in other places. Now lest you think I am criticizing sweet suburban churches, I am not. In fact, I believe strongly in God's desire to bless His people, however I have recently been forced by circumstance to examine the disconnect that very blessing can create from the realities that many in our city face on a daily basis. Fast forward to 2014 and due to the lease on our current location expiring, we found ourselves moving to a new building in the epicentre of our city. A gift really; a building paid for by the congregations that came before us. We were excited about the opportunity, but naive about the cost, not understanding that God had set us up for a journey that would lead us face to face with "the least of our brethren". We spent the first two years of trying to recreate suburban bliss in the middle of the inner city. And it wasn't working. Instead we were being drawn by God into a new conversation. How should a church in the heart of the city, with the highest demographic of poverty and other problems respond to the people around them? Of course the answer on paper seems obvious. You should feed the poor, heal the sick and comfort the brokenhearted. But the walking out of that journey is not as simple... in fact its downright messy, complicated and sometimes exhausting. So exhausting that it was too much for us alone, and we found ourselves entering into partnership with others who could help us carry the weight. We now find ourselves in a church where hundreds of people enter the doors each day to receive a meal, some groceries and other help. And yes... our congregation is growing and blossoming, with rows, and rows of people. People with enormous problems and little of their own resources. And its at this point that you find out the truth about the Jesus and His ability to change lives from the ground up. Yes its messy, it's uncomfortable and it's demanding. Yet I can honestly say, that I have never felt more alive, more connected to the gospel... or more dependant on the power of God to meet the needs that are beyond our human capacity. As I see the marks of all humanity wearing a path to our door, I know that we have been given an opportunity to share the heart of the Father, in the heart of the city and we have found Him Faithful.
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Wendy Peter is the North American Director of Events for the Women on the Frontlines Organization.
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