No compromise on Jesus or mission

We find ourselves in very interesting conversations as a ministry in Winnipeg’s North End these days. As odd as it may sound, we keep asking ourselves, “What cultural moment are we in?” This is like the Old Testament’s commentary on the men of Issachar: they understood their times (1 Chronicles 12:32). That’s all we know about the men of Issachar.

It’s difficult to be a Christian ministry in this cultural moment. Though our foundation is firmly placed on Jesus Christ, we are constantly pressured to compromise that foundation. If we did, all kinds of financial support would come our way, so I understand how many Christian ministries fall into the temptation.

The Meals for Kids program provides healthy, nutritious meals in a safe and monitored environment on Bridge Drop-in evenings to the children in the community. Meant to be more than simply providing a meal, the program’s goal is to create a safe, nurturing environment for kids to engage with one another and with caring adults. (Photo supplied)

One writer talks about how Christian ministries and churches are being colonized by culture. Secular pressure has entered the doors of our churches and ministries. One funder admitted they loved the fact that we fed children in the North End and helped employ young people but wished we could leave Jesus out of it.

One of the downsides to being a welcoming Christian community is that our doors remain open for those who believe the gospel is good news as well as those who don’t. I understand the gospel has been bad news at certain historical junctures but if I really believed, at its core, it was harmful, there’s no way I could remain faithful to it, nor should I.

My belief has never been deeper that faith is real and relevant, given the spiritual malaise that has settled on the hearts of so many people. We need more of Jesus, not less.

It feels like churches and Christian ministries have lost a bit of confidence on this front. Christian ministries are biblically wired for self-reflection. Psalm 139:23–24 says, “Search me, God, and know my heart…. See if there is any offensive way in me.” This sets a foundation for reflection.

What happens when ministry culture loses this virtuous reflex for reflection? One sad consequence is that we can forget who we are as people of faith. Or, at the very least, we neglect the aspirational identity markers that make us Jesus people.

It’s my opinion that we have imbibed some of the cold accusations that culture has thrown at us and are moping about, wondering if it’s true—are we really doing harm? We had an interesting moment at a recent retirement party for someone involved in building low-income housing. He had a foggy recollection of a time when churches were relevant: “Didn’t churches used to get involved in building houses?” Our team admitted that, in fact, they did. “Yes,” he said, “and as I recall it, they were better at it than the government.”

Never has there been a greater opportunity to show the good news that is Jesus. It’s time we remember that we are the people who care for the poor, bring sight to the blind, and freedom to those in captivity. It’s time to shake off false allegations and freely serve in our world.