Trusting God vs. Gimmicks

It’s not a flashy idea easily marketed in a consumer-driven culture where well-meaning organizations brand and promote themselves to win. But it is a centuries-old one originating with Jesus. It’s about him and what he’s done to offer hope, reconciliation, and rest to broken humanity. Many reject him and mock his mission. Too often, local churches and people claiming to represent Jesus are poor examples of the healing and wholeness he suffered to provide. Yet, his words remain as true today as when he uttered them two millennia ago:

Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light (Matthew 11:28-30).

Quietly, persistently, and humbly, our small Billion.Global team is serving diligently to help more than 150 Christ-loving organizations live out the mission of Christ, finding strength in him and one another. Billion.Global is about keeping Jesus and his mission on the front burner when “bigger” and “more compelling” priorities would push these to the back. It’s about helping each other, seeking synergy in carrying out this mission rather than individualism leading to silos, crippling rather than enhancing effectiveness.

Sadly, evangelicalism has too often become enmeshed in consumer capitalism. What do we do to convince the most donors to give generously to our Christian cause? Who are our competitors and how do we outpace them? How do we frame our work to engage the most people? What branding, social media presence, and marketing schemes will result in attracting the most human and financial resources? While all of these may have their place, they are not the “main thing.”

Rather than selling ourselves and our organizations, may we live as Christ-followers in an authentic way. May we trust God more than givers and gimmicks. May we be intentional in committing ourselves fully to Jesus, even being ready to die so others can live. May the love of Christ compel us to compassion, to caring deeply about those who have never had the opportunity to hear, understand, and believe the Good News of Jesus. And may we play to an audience of One, not nearly as concerned about what others think of us but very concerned about what he thinks. Most importantly, may all we are and all we do to serve him and others in mission be for his glory alone!

Gratefully,

Bob Fetherlin OMS Global President