Anglican Diocese of Calgary

Often when we think of mission, we consider the things we have to do and say, and we can get quite tied in knots. We can think of an Evangelist as a speaker sounding forth from a street corner or stage. This person tells you what’s what. What we don’t necessarily consider is that listening is an extremely important aspect of mission. It is a particular kind of listening, too. It is opening ourselves up to the other person with no particular agenda in mind, but rather giving our full attention to the other person as we lovingly hold space for them. We don’t worry about what we are going to say in response but rather allow the Spirit to guide us.

People are looking for meaning and connection and are often struggling with identity. We all carry hurt and pain and sometimes the best thing is to have someone truly listen, to feel heard. We have been blessed to have Michael Harvey visit our diocese. He invites us to pray a simple prayer “Lord, today is there someone You want me to connect with outside the church?” And, when God puts people in our path, we ask a simple question, “How are you?” and perhaps a follow-up question, “How are you really”. It is amazing how people will open up when they realize you really care about the answer to this simple question!

One of my favourite biblical stories is “The Road to Emmaus”, found in the 24^th chapter of Luke. This amazing story begins by Jesus coming alongside and asking the two disciples who are walking away a couple of questions. And then the disciples open up. Jesus began many of his encounters by not only asking a question, but then by truly listening to the response. This form of questioning is an invitation, which is another important aspect of mission.

Many of our parishes are worried about church growth. One of the ways we go about dealing with this concern is to come up with ways to get people in the pews: we’ll change the music; we’ll dumb down the liturgy; we will become better entertainers; we’ll offer the best coffee in town. The important step we forget is the listening part. Have we actually connected with people and listened to hear what is on their hearts? what they are seeking? their desire for meaning?

So, your excuse to not be involved in mission or evangelism may be that you are not an eloquent speaker, or you don’t have enough biblical and theological knowledge. But can you listen, and can you hear? Can you listen in a way that demonstrates that you truly care and are willing to devote this time solely to the person? If so, then add a prayer like the Acorn prayer, Lord, today, is there someone You want me to connect with outside the church?” and see what happens.

This month's Missional Minute contribution comes from The Rev. Deacon Elizabeth Short.