If you've been journeying alongside Missio in exploring the Gospel of Matthew thus far in 2024, congratulations are in order! You’ve made it a quarter of the year and are still embarking on an exciting expedition through the gospel with your fellow disciple makers! We are continuing to delve deep into the life, mission, and teachings of Jesus Christ and are so glad you are here for the journey.
Our prayer continues to be that this gospel would shape both the present reality and future trajectory of Missio Dei Communities. - Kevin Platt
In our ongoing apprenticeship to Jesus, we've traveled the terrain of this Gospel, immersing ourselves in its narratives. From a comprehensive overview of the Gospel to slow contemplation of the Sermon on the Mount, we've marveled at the richness of Matthew's gospel, discovering profound connections and multiple implications for our lives along the way. In March we connected the many different scenes in Matthews gospel that point back to the life and ministry of Moses- highlighting Jesus as the true and greater prophet who would deliver God’s people from slavery!
In April, we are diving deeper into some of the the stories that shape our understanding of Jesus and His kingdom. Each Sunday, we'll delve into a specific passage, inviting the Missio family to engage in reflective meditation and collaborative learning. But before we get to Sunday, you’ll be invited to spend the week meditating and marinating on the same text. using the READ method, That’s right. It’s one story each week. Slow down and linger with Jesus in each of these stories and see what he may be inviting you into .
Remember: The Season of Easter serves as a poignant reminder of our apprenticeship to Jesus. This year, amidst the celebrations, we're calling our family to re-examine our commitment to following Christ. Within the stories of Matthew's gospel, we will encounter challenging discipleship questions that compel us to evaluate our walk with Jesus and ask afresh: Are we truly following Him?
As we embark on this next leg of our journey, we urge you to share your experiences and insights with others. Whether it's within the proximity of your home, or in collaboration with your Missional Community, or maybe within the network of friends, let the transformative life and work of Jesus resonate through your conversations.
Remember, the journey of discipleship isn't solitary; it's a communal process where we're called to both receive and bless others with the grace we've received.
Stay tuned for our weekly posts as we embark on this stage of our expedition through Matthew's gospel. The first story awaits, inviting us to explore, reflect, repent and grow together as a family of servant ambassadors, sent as disciples to make disciples.