(Paul Tillich quote on stone in New Harmony, IN)

We are Called to be Co-Creators and Co-Redeemers

“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us. The creation waits in eager expectation for the sons of God to be revealed. For the creation was subjected to frustration, not by its own choice, but by the will of the one who subjected it, in hope that the creation itself will be liberated from its bondage to decay and brought into the glorious freedom of the children of God. We know that the whole creation has been groaning as in the pains of childbirth right up to the present time. Not only so, but we ourselves, who have the firstfruits of the Spirit, groan inwardly as we wait eagerly for our adoption as sons, the redemption of our bodies. For in this hope we were saved.” (Romans 8: 18-24a)

For the Doctorate of Ministry in Science and Theology program, I have been reading Christopher Southgate's: The Groaning of Creation: God, Evolution and the Problem of Evil. Southgate proposes that humans are "called" to be "co-creators" and "co-redeemers" with God's unfolding creation. He defines co-creators as those whose purpose is to be the agency, acting in freedom, to help further God's work in creating a "wholesome future" not only for our own benefit but for all creatures. And he adds, "if we may participate in God's creative and redemptive work, it is because we ourselves are still being created and redeemed."

Isn't this good news? Each of us has a calling to help create and redeem creation, working in companionship with God! Southgate emphasizes that as we live out this purpose we become partners with our triune God in the healing of our little corner of the cosmos. But to do so we must be humble Christ-like servants and realize that all creatures are embraced and loved in communion with God.

What does this mean for your life? At our Church Expo there are many opportunities presented to help you get involved in our church as Christ-like servants that will ultimately benefit our little corner of the cosmos. You can still sign up to be a Sunday School teacher helper, or a Youth group advisor, sign up for a mission team going to Louisiana, or help with the church bazaar. If you are still searching for how you can help “co-create” our church ministries, contact me and I'll be glad to help you find a way to align your gifts and talents with a ministry opportunity. Helping others not only promotes growth in our church, but it helps you grow in new ways, too!