This month, we are exploring “The Village Series,” focusing on our church's Mission, Identity, Core Values, and Vision. Our vision and priorities have emerged from extensive preparation, prayer, and discernment. Our Vision is not just wishful thinking; it is a communal understanding of where we believe God is leading us.
2024 was a pivotal year for Village, marking our 75th anniversary. We reflected on our journey since 1949, recognizing the faithful people who have contributed to our community. In our celebration we acknowledge the significant changes the church has faced, particularly during the pandemic. We were challenged to consider what kind of church is needed in today's world.
Over the past few years, we have focused on the New Testament to establish a clearer understanding of our identity as a missional, multicultural community. We studied the Gospels to rediscover who Jesus is, explored the Gospel of the Kingdom through Romans, and examined the church's calling in Luke-Acts. This journey has led us to understand our mission: to be a community of Jesus-followers compelled by His love, loving God and our neighbors.
Historically, churches have often used antagonistic language in describing their mission. However, we must embrace a different approach, one that reflects the humility and service exemplified by Jesus. He said, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” Our focus should be on remaining in Jesus, allowing Him to bear fruit through us.
Our mission is to be compelled by the love of Jesus, to love the Triune God and our neighbors as ourselves. The church on God’s mission is a sign and foretaste of God’s Kingdom on earth. Our Core Values guide our community, and our Vision is to create an intercultural community of Jesus-following disciples, committed to representing the risen Christ, sharing the whole gospel, befriending across boundaries, and peacemaking in the world.
To understand our Vision, we turn to the story of Jacob in Genesis. Jacob's narrative is crucial for understanding the identity and vocation of God’s people. While Abraham’s story is significant, Jacob’s story spans his entire life from birth, over 25 chapters, highlighting his complex life filled with struggles, deception, and ultimately transformation.
In Genesis 32, Jacob wrestles with an angel, a pivotal moment that transforms his life. Alone and afraid, he encounters God and insists on receiving a blessing. The angel asks Jacob, “What is your name?” This question is profound; Jacob has lived his life defined by others—his brother, his mother, and his circumstances. For the first time, he admits, “My name is Jacob,” acknowledging his past of deceit and competition.
God responds by giving Jacob a new identity: Israel, which signifies a new vocation and vision. Jacob’s transformation leads him to become a blessing to others rather than merely seeking blessings for himself. This new identity compels him to bless three specific people groups: his enemy, other nations, and future generations.
First, Jacob reconciles with Esau, his long-time enemy. Their embrace signifies forgiveness and humility, demonstrating that reconciliation often comes through vulnerability. Jesus teaches us to love our enemies, and Jacob’s story exemplifies this principle.
Second, Jacob becomes a blessing to other nations. His family’s move to Egypt illustrates how God’s people are called to cross ethnic and national boundaries, sharing God’s mercy and compassion with others.
Third, Jacob blesses future generations. In his final moments, he prays for his grandchildren, emphasizing the importance of passing on blessings to the next generation.
As a church, we are called to embody this new identity in Christ. We are not just recipients of blessings but are meant to be blessings to others—our enemies, those from different backgrounds, and future generations. This calling is rooted in our experience of God’s love, which empowers us to live authentically and vulnerably.
In conclusion, I urge you to reflect on the question, “What is your name?” Stand before God as your true self, embracing His love and mercy. Let us live as a church that embodies the hope of the world, becoming a blessing to all we encounter. May we fulfill our Vision as a community of Jesus-followers, committed to His mission in the world. Amen.
