At the centre of ministry should be the example of Jesus’ own life and ministry.
Many sports enthusiasts have often seen teams taking the field or court without a clear plan. Within minutes of the start of a game, it can be easily observed that some players are playing in one particular way and others in another way.
Even within current institutions, we can see different ‘game plans’ playing out in various contexts.
Unless we are rooted in the understanding of Jesus’ mission, we can drift from our mission and move away from our original intentions. Central to Mission is living a life that witnesses to the Good News; living life as Jesus lived.
In the Gospel today, John helps his readers understand the importance of reflecting on the Life of Jesus. He articulates the example of Jesus’ life as, the way, the truth, and the life. Comprehending this statement is what will give a unity to a believing community.
As we know, leadership can fail and has failed. We have often been let down by the Church and other societal institutions and leaders. There have been situations of abuse in Church and society, there have been cover ups by church authorities and other authorities.
We are kept going as Christians not just by institutions but by the life of Jesus in the Gospels given to us by the evangelists.
Where the spirit is, there is creation and new life.
Where the Spirit is, there is the living Christ.
The Spirit is the breadth of God’s creative love
so that whoever lives in the Spirit
lives in the newness of God.
Image by fancycrave1 from Pixabay
Ronan Barry
