Shared Sustainability

The fourth Better Together idea gets to the matter of Shared Sustainability. There is a myth that many of us believe—particularly in the West. It is the myth of independence: the idea that there will come a time when we “grow up,” when we succeed, and when we no longer need others—no longer need anything from anyone. Somehow, we have concluded that independence is the definition of success. This notion is primarily a Western construct, built upon an individualistic mindset, while much of the rest of the world thinks collectively. But the concept of independence is not a biblical reflection of Christian living—for we are called as one body, and 1 Corinthians 12 reminds us that we are the body of Christ, and each one of us is a part of it. If one part suffers, every part suffers. If one part is honored, every part rejoices. We really are Better Together. In fact, we were actually created to be dependent—upon our Father and upon one another—biblically interdependent.

And so, we may naturally create Kingdom partnerships that share God’s resources for His glory and the accomplishment of His mission. True biblical mutuality does not demand equal reciprocity that disregards the uniqueness of cultures, expressions of faith, or Spirit-guided local ministry contexts. We solve problems together, bringing what we have been given; we work to undo the schemes of our enemy together. These are Shared Sustainability Initiatives. Such initiatives might involve exchanging perspectives and personal resources; providing grants and offering helpful insight regarding cultural contexts, or contributing in other creative ways. It is our great privilege to give generously, love dangerously, live radically, and work closely with brothers and sisters globally—influencing as many people as possible toward Jesus.