This Summer we are GATHERING DIFFERENTLY, but anciently. This is how THEY gathered in the 1st Century. The early church did not construct buildings; they couldn’t. They didn’t gather in stadiums; Rome wouldn’t allow it. The early church gathered in homes. We are gathering during the best weather months in what we’re calling Watch Parties. These parties are simple - just add friends. 82 Stratford Dr. remains closed, but the church is WIDE OPEN. Good thing we’re an aircraft carrier kind of church.

I am so encouraged by the stories I keep hearing of how God is at work in and through these Watch Parties. Church is happening on driveways, back patios and in garages.

Here’s a question I’m sitting with: What would my life look like if Jesus were living it?

I think my life would look like a number of things, but one thing for sure is my life would be a life ON MISSION.

In the gospel of Mark, Jesus said “Let's go over to the other side.”

The Jews regarded the other side as the place where Satan lived. It was DANGEROUS on the other side. It was dark, evil, oppressive, and demonic. The other side was known as the Decapolis - 10 cities filled with pagan temples, featuring all kinds of craziness. If that wasn’t enough to rate “the other side” very low on Tripadvisor, get this…on the other side the pig which was the most unclean animal in Israel, was regarded as sacred. In Decapolis the pig was used in worship and for all these reasons and perhaps even more, ya just didn’t go to the other side! That was, until Jesus showed up.

This story is one I hope you study. It speaks of the missional life Jesus lived and is wanting to continue to live THROUGH YOU.

Why host a watch party? Jesus WAS and IS inviting you to leave your place of comfort FOR THE SAKE of reaching people with the love of God. The other side might mean hosting your Watch Party on the other side of the street, in a neighbors driveway or in your own driveway, just filled with folks who wouldn’t generally attend church.

Over the past 18 years of following Jesus, he continues to ask me to join Him - on the other side.

For more information on Watch Parties and how you can host one, click here: https://www.wearemission.com/watch-parties

Onward!

#WeAreMissionWednesday