"There are some 3,500 churches in the greater Houston area, including 5 of Outreach Magazine's Largest Churches in America. Think of the possibilities... Ponder the potential to change Houston if all of these churchgoers 'activated' and ramped up their commitment to love their neighbors to a new, even higher level.
"There is much at stake... Thousands of Houston-area residents are poor, hungry, and even trafficked in human slavery. And in the midst of this stands the Church of Jesus Christ... with resources, knowledge, and tools unequaled in the history of Christendom. I believe that we stand on the brink of a defining moment. We have a choice to make...
"Will [historians] write that this, the beginning of the twenty-first century, was the Church's finest hour? Or will they look back and see a Church too comfortable, insulated from the pain of the rest of greater Houston, empty of compassion, and devoid of deeds?... The heart and soul of the Church of Jesus Christ, the very integrity of our faith and our relevance in Houston, hang in the balance... One way or the other, this will be our defining moment...
"The first-century world was amazed by Christ because of what He did: Jesus healed the sick, loved the poor,... stood up for the down-and-out,... dined with prostitutes and corrupt tax collectors,... fought for justice for the oppressed,... [and] demonstrated that greatness is found in serving... These actions - performed by one man - changed the world. These same actions, when carried out by His followers, still change the world today."
- The Hole In Our Gospel by Richard Stearns, updated with Houston-specific data
We love that churches throughout greater Houston are indeed "ramping up their commitment to love their neighbors." We especially love seeing churches that are loving their neighbors through their local schools. What a valuable way to get to know and affirm the community's needs, strengths, and opportunities while serving alongside those educating our future leaders. In a world where differences divide and despair is rampant, a church-school partnership has the power to offer reconciliation and hope.
It's back-to-school time! Do you know of a church-school partnership in the greater Houston area? Are you or your church members loving a school through mentoring, tutoring, appreciation meals, etc.? We'd love to hear your story!
