LATEST NEWS FROM BEN RUSIN (SITE PASTOR)
I finally got to participate at the Liverpool street kitchen on Saturday the 15th Feb and absolutely loved it. The more I thought about it afterwards the more I realised how much I loved it.
I loved it for;
- The Site Team – mobilised, serving, connecting and just “being” whatever God needed us to be. I was immensely proud to be one of “Karen’s Crew” because of how we all jumped right in – whether to serve the food and connect with the other servers, or to meet the wonderful people gathered to eat or at times just to see what was happening – I just had the phrase in my mind, that “ we look like Jesus’ disciples!” So a massive YES to everyone who was there! And to all those who are cooking even when they cannot make it! What a gift you are to all of the moments and wonderful encounters made possible through the LSK.
- I LOVED seeing the post from the Liverpool Street Kitchen on Facebook (check it out!). One of the core things driving us in ‘being a kingdom presence in the CN Community’. And we have found something to partner with what God is already doing in the community. I loved seeing all our faces popping up on their Facebook page, serving, connecting and championing the things of the kingdom. One great measure about how we as a local church can find if we are contributing to the kingdom’s presence – is when other people are celebrating how great the church are! Where the social media buzz about church is not mainly ‘from’ the church, but from the community. How great is that!
- Working with Natalia and her team – Natalia even from first impressions appears to be someone with a big heart for others. And she leads a compassionate and energetic team that feels like family (I think some of them are actually family!). I loved seeing a message she sent to Karen, thanking the “Karen Crew” for being so involved and how excited she is to see us next time. By joining in with what God was already doing, it champions others and supports others who are also championing the kingdom. Love partnerships!
- What it did for me and my discipleship – I found being OUT, made it so easy to just be a disciple. Getting out of the classroom where we talk about moving out and being with others, is a lot easier and effective when we already are. I loved meeting and discovering Jesus in others, whether they knew it or not. And found Holy Spirit speaking to me a lot as I listened more intently as I knew I was on mission. And there was something significant about doing it together – we are better together! Learning from one another in how to ask a great question, how to champion someone well and how to be ready to pray, share and encourage someone. I am enjoying how this is shaping the way I see my Monday – Friday. Always on mission, always ready for a moment with someone to share, be and champion the kingdom.
I am excited for the connections, the prayers, the testimonies shared and heard, and the disciple making moments of Saturday. And I am excited to see us continue to learn, discover and champion the kingdom moving throughout CN and the surrounds.
If you can make the next one on the 29/2 – I am confident you will enjoy as much as I did!
