As our community grows bigger, as God adds to the number of young people that intersects with our lives in Amplify, we need to open our tents wider. (Isa 54:2-3)
I am deeply convinced that as we grow bigger, we need to get smaller. I believe the introduction and proliferation of small community groups in Amplify is of great importance going forward.
Made in the image of a Trinitarian God, the need for community and authentic relationships is hardwired into our DNA. To be connected to another human being is intrinsic to what it means to be human and alive. To feel belong, accepted and understood are deep desires with one’s soul. Our normal society often do not naturally provide the sort of environments that nurture these needs as well as provide the opportunity to extend it to others, and we are the worse for it.
We, who are disciples of Jesus Christ need to realize that Jesus himself, on the onset of his ministry established a community with his band of 12 disciples. Which points to us that Discipleship happens in the context of community – in fact to be His disciple is to Follow him and be part of a family. Both of intertwined and cannot be separated, no one can follow Jesus in isolation.
Authentic relationships cannot happen in large group gatherings. Even Jesus would often take his band of disciples away in private. He knew that a big group setting can nurture relationship and discipleship only so far – to go deeper, one must get smaller.
Thus, it is with this in mind that I call the Amplify Community to begin the task of nurturing a Small group culture. To find ways of gathering in smaller group settings to facilitate connection, life change and cultivate outreach.
I see us coming up with a way of doing community groups that is easy and simple. So simple that anyone can do it. So simple that all people from all stages of youth can take hold and form a group right where they are.
I see people forming Amplify Community Groups (ACGs) in schools. I see students who attend Amplify who are from the same school forming ACGs who meet after school to share. I see them praying together for their needs and the needs of their friends in school.
I see ACGs forming in the Universities and polytechnics, in between lunch breaks. I see small groups of young people, 6 or 8 of them, finding community at canteens and benches all over Campus.
I see ACGs happening in Cafes around City Hall, Bugis, Orchard, Jurong point, Parkway Parade and more. I see young working adults, still dressed in their work clothes leaned over a cup of coffee, sharing the bible and how their day went. I smell the aroma of coffee beans, hear the sounds of laughter and the honest discussion of how the word of God applies to the grey situations of their increasingly complicated lives.
I see a group of guys, just booked out of camp gathering in someone’s home and exchanging stories of their week. I see them challenging each other to live out their Christian calling in a very godless environment. I see them praying for each other and the one who couldn’t book out that evening because he got guard duty. I see them sms-ing the brother to encourage him.
I see a group of sisters meeting around the living room of a home. I see open hearts and open bibles. I see the sisters coming around someone who had just lost someone dear to them. I see them rally around the person offering the support of an authentic community.
I see a group of young married couples and parents gathering around the kitchen table of a newly renovated home. I see couples who have been married for long sharing stories and lessons. Exchanging tips on parenting and thoughts on what God says about an enduring fruitful marriage.
I see 2 or 3 community groups taking the initiative to come together to visit a home, help raise funds for a cause or just take a mission trip together. I see lives outside the groups being touched by the kindness of a group of Jesus followers who had challenged each together to really love.
I see people who showed up and at the end of it, were glad they came. And they look forward to coming again.
I see people experience connection, even if a bit, for the first time.
I see people who are usually socially awkward , find a place of acceptance and encouragement.
I see a place where people can be honest about their doubts about the faith and find their answers in a safe environment.
I see Groups where real life change happens.
I see a whole network of ACGs, hundreds of them throughout Singapore, proliferating everywhere, in every parish, campus and school. Everyday of the week.
I see Amplify becoming a Community of communities, comprising of people from every place and phase of life, spreading a passion for Jesus Christ in togetherness.
“Everyday, they continued to meet together in the temple courts. They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts, praising God and enjoying the favor of all people. and the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” Acts 2:46-47.
O Lord, it is your will that we your disciples be in community. It is the pattern you have set for us as your disciples. We thank you Lord, that if it isn’t enough that you gave us your love, you also give us each other. Help us as a community in Amplify, to love more people and love people more. Help us Lord, as we lay the gound work for Community groups in Amplify. Bless our efforts, increase our understanding and give us the courage to take action. May you grant us good leadership in this lasting endeavor.
Rise up good Community Group leaders who are godly, wise, compassionate, responsible and hospitable. Help stir up the hearts of those you are calling to be shepherds of their people. May they imitate you, the Good shepherd in taking care and feeding of your flock.
May you cause Community Groups to grow and flourish in Amplify and in our diocese. And reach the emerging generation for your glory.
In Jesus name,
Amen.
