Thrive in the City by Living Into the Great StorySample

Developing Spiritual Sight 

We can see evidence that the world is not as it should be every day. The reason is a lack of shalom in our broken world. As Jesus followers, we have the opportunity to engage in the reconciliation, repair, and restoration of our world as peacemakers.

Jesus demonstrates this with the Samaritan woman. He notices that a woman drawing water at high noon is out of place. He sees her dignity and worth and moves toward her. He immerses himself in her story. When it becomes clear that she’s on the defensive about places of worship, Jesus gets creative in love in how he communicates truth to her. Ultimately, Jesus seeks the restoration of the woman by revealing himself to her so she could be in a right relationship with God, herself, and others. 

Understanding the story of those in your community and your city will help develop your spiritual sight and open your eyes to where God is contending for shalom and renewal in your city and where the “gospel gaps” are present.

More people live in cities today than ever before. A UN study on world population suggests that by 2050 the world will be 68.7% urban. According to Edward Glaeser’s, Triumph of the City, there is a near perfect correlation between urbanization and prosperity across nations. What does this mean? Cities are the future of civilization and can serve as amplifiers for fruitful gospel witness. 

There are two attitudes you can choose to have towards the city: the attitude of a farmer or that of a miner. Jesus used farming illustrations often and taught the importance of cultivating good soil to bear fruit that will last. Miners come to consume resources and leave when they've had their fill. The act of farming always has as its motivation to bless and feed more than just yourself. 

Prophets like Jeremiah called on people to seek the peace and prosperity of the city and to have a long-term posture in relation to spiritual renewal. A call towards gospel renewal in the city requires both a conversion to place and living on the underside of power as exiles.

Take a moment with God.

Who represents the Samaritan Woman in your community? Take a step to develop your spiritual sight by forming authentic relationships with those who are different than you.

What is your attitude towards your community or city? In what ways can you learn to cultivate as a farmer?