We believe that God is present in ...

The gospel, "good news" is about Jesus and about his inaugurated Kingdom here on earth. In its original meaning, the evangelion was the announcing of a new ruler-a cosmic ruler.  It is good news because a new King-Jesus the eternal King-reigns above any power or government or leader.  A new age indeed has begin at the death, resurrection and ascension of Jesus.  It is also good news because sin and death have been defeated; the curse of death, and the bondage of sin has been defeated on the cross.  God has been faithful and accomplished his plan of rescue, redemption, and reconciliation through the God-man Jesus.  And God sends another, the Holy Spirit who takes us into the world-to engage the issues, to be light in darkness, to do our best to transform society, and to maximize God's shalom everywhere we are and go. 

A powerful prayer found in the Iona Abbey Worship book nicely summarizes our participation in God's mission.  

We believe that God is present in the darkness before dawn; in the waiting and uncertainty where fear and courage join hands, conflict and caring link arms, and the sun rises over barbed wire. We believe in a with-us God who sits down in our midst to share our humanity. We affirm a faith that takes us beyond the safe place: into action, into vulnerability and into the street.  We commit ourselves to work for change and put ourselves on the line;to bear responsibility, take risks,live powerfully and face humiliations to stand with those on the edge; to choose life and be used by the Spirit for God's new community of hope.

Amen.

- Iona Abbey Worship Book (c) 2001 The Iona Community

Be faithful to your calling. It is not going to be a smooth light journey and will require perseverance.  Suffering may be the new norm for those that follow Christ. God has empowered you with whatever is needed for the mission and with you through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit-have strength and courage.