Several years ago, the buzzword “relevant” appeared to capture the Christian community.
Substance over style seemed to drive this movement, as many Christians did not want to be confined to a set pattern of dress, worship or Sunday morning ritual, feeling it a hindrance to their ability to communicate about Jesus in their circles of influence. Out went a lot of khakis and in came a lot of tattoos.
I enjoy seeing the mix of those I go to church with. I see all races. I see all backgrounds. I see all fashion-styles. But most of all, I see people who know they are loved by Jesus and in turn love Jesus.
We have a relevant church.
It doesn’t stop at the church building. Bars, coffee shops, you name it – there are many untraditional places where it is not uncommon to hear somebody sharing the love of Jesus Christ.
Like a parent trying to stay involved in their child’s life by asking questions, I think we have too seek to understand our culture more in order to embrace it with the love of Christ. That is staying relevant.
However, we should keep reverence as our goal.
Webster’s defines reverence as honor or respect that is felt for or shown to someone or something.
Our goal should be to communicate a deep love and respect for God, his mercy and our opportunity to have Him work in and through us.
We don’t have to rely on keeping up with the details of the most popular television show, movie, or celebrity to engage our culture.
I’ll venture to say we don’t have to know a thing about them at all.
What we need to know is more of God, his grace and his ability to provide what anybody feels they are lacking in life.
This gap is filled by the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
As we continue to honor and respect God with our mind, body and spirit, we will always be able to take that relevant message to a world that needs substance over style.
We proclaim Christ, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. (Colossians 1:28)
