“All men of action are dreamers.”
James G. Huneker
“Nothing happens unless first a dream.”
Carl Sandburg
The vision has been set in my mind for several years now of a church community planted with certain intentions of holistically approaching faith. It was an epiphany of sorts which in my thoughts was understood as a moment of inspiration. It was not until a few weeks ago that God brought new insights however as to what “epiphany” meant.
Reflecting on this vision God placed in my heart, I asked God what such a community would be called and this word epiphany kept coming to my mind. I finally decided to look the word up and to my surprise I discovered the word primarily means: an appearance of God the manifestation of a divine being. It connected right away!!! A community with the desire to seek and experience the presence of Christ in their lives would be called ‘Epiphany’!
This last week I attended probably one of the most stressful and emotional Summits I have ever been to. It was the ‘Three Streams Church Planting Summit’in Calgary and while there I realized I was making a decision for Bonnie & I to commit to taking the next steps in seeing the vision become a reality. It was a commitment which in all honesty terrified me but filled me with excitement at its possibilities!
The possibilities of Epiphany:
A people of dynamic creative worship (Psalm 150; Heb. 10:24-25)
A church that is dedicated to and praises Christ through the dynamic gifts of everyone in it whether it is artistic, musical, theatrical, dance, or otherwise. That worship would be in the benefit of praising God for the gifts he gives each one of us and our building each other up within them.
A people of prayer (Luke 19:46; Acts 2:42)
That prayer becomes a communal center point through all activities such as open web blogs, small house groups, community prayer walks, ect.
A people who are focused on the teacings of the word of God in scripture (2 Tim. 3:16-17; 2 Tim. 4:1-2)
That all teaching is based on a Biblical footing and centered upon in regards to any gathering. The “stage” is not looked upon for who is on it but to the spoken words of God’s scripture.
“Do not be influenced by the importance of the writer, and whether his learning be great or small, but let the love of pure truth draw you to read. Do not inquire, Who said this? But pay attention to what is said.” – Thomas a Kempis
A people who care for one another holistically (Matt. 22:37-39; 1 Cor. 6:19-20)
A community that cares not only for the spirituality of others but also for their physical and psychological condition. That being a follower of Christ means striving to transform and better all life in a holistic fashion.
A place for hands and feet (Matt. 25:34-40; James 1:22-27; Gal. 5:22-25)
A community which shares the good news of Christ’s presence and work in their lives by serving the needs of others regardless of their beliefs, setting, or social standing. It is an attitude that shares the gospel with those who have not heard it through the actions of service and presence rather then words and dogmatics.
A church that exists of the community and not in the community
It is a church which reaches out and connects with all parts of the community rather then waiting for the community to come to it. So that small groups meet and engage in local coffee shops, gyms, and other social establishments. It participates, connects, and develops with community events and gatherings.
Perhaps I am just a dreamer!?
Just Wondering... 