I recently attended a Business Chamber event hosted by Waipā District Council.
Phil Strong
It was a fantastic environment to connect with other community leaders, counicl staff, and hear from Mayor Susan as she introduced the new chief executive Steph O’Sullivan.
What stood out to me the most from Steph’s kōrero was her commitment to connection; evidenced by her running shoes, which she said were necessary to keep up the pace of her engagements with the region.
I applaud the council for their consultative approach to Ahu Ake, seeking input from residents across the district. I took the time to read the draft of their Enhanced Annual Plan which was full of information that helped to explain the ‘business’ of council. All of this to say, this is a strong demonstration of connection being the key to community.
Jesus instructed His followers to be boldly and brightly connected with their community.
He said it this way; “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house.”
The Christian Church Leaders of Te Awamutu gather monthly to share with and support one another.
In these discussions we learn of the many great works done to support people across Waipā. Unfortunately, many of these initiatives go unrecognised.
Here at Zion, we are quite bold in our proclamation of community connection and the efforts we undertake to draw people together.
This is not for pride or applause, rather driven by a desire that people feel welcome to come and celebrate the life we share as members of the same community.
My team have done a stellar job recently connecting with a large number of local businesses and schools as we extend our annual Tree Awamutu event. What excites me about this project is the way people from many parts of the community are coming together in collaborative commitment to “shine their light.”
As a church, we don’t forget the subsequent statement of Jesus that helps to explain
His motive for His missive. He adds, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.”
The reason we seek to serve others is so that, by our love and good deeds, they can see our motive.
We serve others in love because Jesus first loved us. We give to others because Jesus was given as the best Christmas present, ever. We welcome people because we were warmly welcomed by Jesus. We love people so that they might pause to ask “why?”
Connection only occurs when two or more participate—it’s impossible to have connection alone. I encourage you to reach out to others in the school car park, holler hello over the fence, offer to pick up groceries for someone else, or go the extra mile and mow their lawns.
The essence of Christian faith is community, gathered around Jesus as the source of love and hope, sharing what we have with each other.
Zion Church pastor Phil Strong
