Catechism: Training for the MissionSample

Living on mission isn’t a special calling for a few brave, exceptional believers. It’s for all of us who follow Jesus, at all times, and in all places. The best news is that if you’ve been changed by the gospel, you already have everything you need to share it. You have the Holy Spirit living and working inside of you!

Mission is an invitation to take our place in the ongoing story of redemption we see throughout the Bible. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection were the climax, but not the completion, of that mission. Just as God sent Jesus into the world, Jesus now sends us, the Church, into the world to continue his mission as his Body on earth.

But Jesus doesn’t send us alone; the Holy Spirit empowers us as we join in the mission. It’s only through the Holy Spirit’s power that we are able to reflect God’s love to the world and work to see it flourish. That’s why it’s so important to live in tune with the Holy Spirit. We can do this by spending time in prayer and reading God’s word, as well as getting together with other believers.

God’s redemptive mission will continue until Jesus returns to establish his kingdom. Until that time comes, we are sent out, empowered by the Holy Spirit to tell everybody everywhere about him.

Read John 16:7-15

Reflection Questions:

• What does the gift of the Holy Spirit show us about God and his love for us?
• Why is depending on the Holy Spirit necessary for living on mission? How can trying to do it on your own lead to pride, exhaustion, or fear? Have you experienced any of those things before?
• What are some practices that could help you stay in tune with the Holy Spirit? How would these habits change your thoughts, choices, and actions? Ask God to help you develop spiritual practices and fill you with his power and peace.