During the half term break, I was very fortunate to be able to visit the Sagrada Familia in Barcellona. Designed by the world renowned architect Antoni Gaudi, it is undoubtedly one of the most famous churches in the world, although it is still not completed. My expectations of the visit were high, especially when you see the price of the tickets. We booked in advance and then arrived during our allocated timeslot.
The basilica dominates the city’s landscape and is quite simply staggering, both inside and out. I have never seen a church like it. On entering, the huge pillars are designed to resemble trees, evoking the Garden of Eden. The kaleidoscope of colours refracted through the stained glass windows are spectacular.
So why, having spent three hours in the building, and listened to a comprehensive audio tour, did I leave feeling a bit flat?
Well, I could tell you about the materials used in the building’s construction. I could show you the incredible sculptures depicting Mary, Joseph and Jesus. But not once did I hear the Good News. For many of the annual three million visitors, it’ll be the only church they step in. What a missed opportunity.
Can’t we do that as well, both in church and our personal lives? I know I can. We’ll talk about everything and nothing and forget the most important news of all.
At Christmas, we have a unique time to share the good news of Jesus. But if we’re not careful, we’ll talk about the mince pies, the presents, even the carols, and forget the Good News of Jesus.
In a brilliant little book by Alex Harris and Chrissy Remsberg, the authors highlight some of the habits growing churches have. One is that the Good News is simply and constantly told.
These churches don’t presume that everyone who attends knows Jesus. They don’t presume the congregation know all the religious lingo. They therefore frequently share the good news of Jesus, in everyday language. It’s the greatest news ever; that’s why at Sheep Street we are committed to publicly and constantly sharing this news.
Could I encourage you to practise sharing the Good News? Not in a contrived, weird way, but so that we are ‘always prepared to give an answer…(for) the reason for the hope that you have.’ (1 Peter 3:15).
Here’s a few to get you started:
God made it.
We broke it.
Jesus is fixing it.
(‘On this Rock’ – Harris and Remsberg)
God loves me.
I have sinned.
Jesus died for me.
I have to decide to live for God.
(the4points.com)
The gospel is the true story of how Jesus the Son was sent by God the Father to become the saving king who now rules forever at his right hand through the sending of the Holy Spirit, fulfilling God’s promises in Scripture. Jesus wants our allegiance
(‘Gospel Allegiance’ – Bates)
Let’s not miss the opportunities that God sends us. Time is of the essence. The harvest is white (ready). People here in Devizes are so open to this Good News. We just need to take
the leap and start sharing.
Blessings, Wes