Freedom Fighters – Revived For A ReasonExemplo

Change The Narrative

Generally speaking, Christians have been better protectors of the Gospel than purveyors of it. We have honed our sword swinging skills rather than our scriptwriting skills, opting to be keyboard warriors over freedom fighters. Sadly, the narratives we have lived out have raised more eyebrows than intrigue, leaving us labelled as hypocritical, exclusive and power hungry. It doesn’t have to stay this way; we each have the ability to change how Jesus is expressed to those around us!

When the message of Jesus continually refines who you are, your life becomes an inspiring and intriguing narrative of grace pointing people to Him. Narrative is powerful. It helps people make sense of their lives and the world around them. It has a way of bringing people in contact with meaning.

You can use narrative to share your faith and help people experience freedom. You are a redeemed person living in a broken world, full of broken narratives, and all you need to do is change the narrative.

Here are 3 narratives worth living out this year inspired by Rick McKinley in his book Faith For This Moment…

1. The Narrative of Rest— The idea of a sabbath goes against the rhythms of society. Rest is a beat inside God’s rhythm of grace which reorients us to what is truly important. In a world rapidly spiralling out of control, we can powerfully show how rest is a golden thread given by God to hold our lives together.

2. The Narrative of Hospitality— Hospitality is at the heart of the gospel. It defies social constructs because it has no social or economic bounds. It says every person matters and that everyone deserves a seat at God’s table. It acknowledges the harsh realities of life, goes the extra mile and sits in the mess with extended arms of love. When we practice true hospitality we are transformed by it.

3. The Narrative of Generosity— People are moved by generosity. Society doesn’t understand it. Money is an idol, so generosity is counter-intuitive to our cultural values. Radical generosity in a consumer culture is abnormal, which means that most people are not doing it. When Jesus changes our hearts towards money, time and resources, we cannot help but live a narrative of generosity.

The next move of God will not be a movement in the church. It is going to be a movement of the church into society; rewriting the stories of education, health, business and life. It’s time to tell the world a better story. Collectively, if we can redeem the narratives of society, we can redeem society.

yesHEis exists to help you tell the world a better story, the story of Jesus. Download the app today and be inspired, stretched and challenged to share Jesus.