Transformational in the City Part 3

As one of the last events I will ever lead as a youth pastor, myself and a few other adults led a group of teens into Reading for a week to revitalize a park and a church building, as well as other side projects. That week was tremendously helpful in meeting neighbors, city officials and business owners. 

As we work and listen in the city, I am learning that there are a many people who also desire to bring about a transformation in Reading. Their are many who hope, many who pray, many who have worked themselves to see this take place. There are also many who are being drawn from outside the city to be a part of things within its borders. These vary from pastors to entrepreneurs, to artist, activist and more. Many are not exactly sure why they are drawn to the city. 

There is a sense that something is about to happen. I believe God has heard the countless prayers of its people and has seen their toiling. There is a time now beginning; a reaping of what has been spiritually sown for God's work through the years. 

I am learning that far more important than any ideas we may have to bring transformation, the thing that is needed most is service, pure and simple. To serve this city relationally and humbly. Because of this, we will scale back some of our longer term ideas and focus on a few parks and repairing homes of good citizens that need help. As we build these relationships, we will have a base on which we can do larger scale projects in the future. 

I am also learning more deeply what I already knew to be true; authentic, lasting transformation will come about, not through our service or relationships alone, but through the healing of God through the forgiveness of sins through Jesus. The hope that He offers and the works of His very good kingdom are exactly what is needed most. 

To see real transformation of this city requires a serious commitment to prayer and a loving boldness to share along with a service that seeks no selfish glory for ourselves or for our church, but for the glory and purposes of God alone, driven by a love for the people and the passion of Christ.