On Tuesday night at a mens conference in Christchurch I found myself surrounded by a group of brothers who were all formerly members of City on a Hill. They had each moved away for work, family or ministry and were now plugged into local churches around the city.
It was such a great delight to hear from each of them about how they were continuing to grow as followers of Jesus and use their gifts to serve in their new church communities.
I couldn't help but echo Paul's words in Philippians 1,
"I thank my God every time I remember you. In all my prayers for all of you, I always pray with joy because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now, being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus."
At City on a Hill we're not just sending mission partners overseas but we're also committed to encouraging and equipping all of God's people to serve wholeheartedly wherever God might lead them. And it was such a joy to see that still happening when folks had left and continued to give of themselves for the sake of God's kingdom.
So may I ask, how are you equipping yourself for service in God's kingdom?
Grace & peace,
Andrew