We live in a rapidly evolving world which many writers have tried to describe. Rob Bell writes about heaven on Earth where love wins. Brian McLaren describes a new kind of Christianity. Michael Dowd tells of an evolving earthspirit where Christianity and science merge to provide better management of Earth. George Cladis suggests that team-based ministry is the most effective model for leading and organizing Christian ministry in the 21st century. These are but a few of many voices creating a vision of a new era in Christianity. We can begin to see the promised land on the horizon where illness is rare, food and housing plentiful, serious conflict seldom occurs, and smiles and laughter are widespread. It makes us anxious to get there.
However, we are not there yet and there are still many obstacles to overcome. Unrest caused by injustice has spread across the Middle East and Africa. Drug wars and trafficking exploit the lives of vulnerable human beings. Earthquakes have devastated Haiti, Japan, and smaller sections of other countries. Tornadoes appear at unscheduled times and turn beautiful buildings into piles of ruble. Wildfires occur where the land is too dry and floods where there is too much rain. However, there is hope. When Christians work together as a team they become a powerful force for reducing suffering and improving the quality of life. Serving on Christ’s Team is the most noble of human adventures and all of us are needed. Working together we can speed the day when the goal is reached.
Robert C. Frank
