It is a strange paradox!  God's Word implores Christians to develop spiritual maturity so that they can eat "spiritual meat" instead of "milk".  The best churches, Christian schools and families take this seriously and provide many opportunities for people to grow in their faith. That seems right! 

In the same Word, however, we were given the Great Commission, "Go into all the world....."

It is sometimes hard to understand the balance that is required of us.  We, as Christians are to grow.  Growth often is easiest when we are in an environment where we are around other  Christians who can guide, mentor and teach......and those environments tend to get more and more "closed" to folks who are different, or who are new.  It is in this environment that we often create a "culture" with many hidden "rules".  It is in this context that we also tend to neglect the Great Commission.  We actually stop connecting with people "outside" the faith in our diligence to learn more and grow. 

When we get caught in the Christian bubble, it is easy to neglect relationships that are outside of the bubble.  We have created a few tools for this issue that we hope will help each of us to re-commit to "creating relationships" and "serving others" so that we will earn the opportunity to "welcome them" -- into our churches and schools...and ultimately into the Kingdom.  

I want to continue to struggle with how this must get worked out in my life. And I hope that these articles this week will also help you to struggle with this paradox in your church, school or home.  

Be sure to support our Sponsor…The EXODUS Network

When you hear of folks who are moving in any city in the US or Canada, call the EXODUS Network so they can access the free services.  The EXODUS Network connect folks with exceptional, professional real estate agents who have passed through an extensive interview and reference checking process.  These agents can also provide tools to help the people get connected to the churches, schools and community so that they can find their place for serving God as quickly as possible.  You can reach EXODUS at 1-800-395-8556.