I was both intrigues and challenged by a recent post by David Collinson (aka Captain Collo) entitled Bless Austell.

In it he quoted from a church in America that had decided to look outside of itself.

The church crafted a new vision, dubbed “Bless Austell,” focused on blessing and serving the community. As part of that vision, church members articulated core values: “God goes before us,” “Deliver radical love that amazes the world it touches,” “Be the hands and feet of Christ,” “Leave the results to God” and “Make people wonder why we are doing this.” New ongoing programs for the community were created, including free midweek aerobics classes, a free community dinner (Grace Cafe) every Thursday night and a tuition-free, weekday preschool (Feed My Lambs) for lower-income families. The church is also reaching out to engage area schools. At nearby Austell Primary School, church members host teacher-appreciation lunches twice a year, volunteer at the school’s annual Spring Fling, and recently purchased and laid 60 bales of pine straw at the school. The church has begun new outreaches with Austell Intermediate and Garrett Middle Schools as well. In addition, Austell First supports the community food pantry and clothes closet, delivers birthday baskets of goodies to residents at an assisted-living home and provides volunteers at community events.While Austell First members are focusing outward, they’ve also seen some changes take place inside the church along the way. Giving is up over 20 percent as God provides for the mission.

Intriguing because it all seems so simple and right.

Challenging because we don’t do it enough.

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