A Living Alternative

On Monday I will be taking part in the "What is Missional?" Synchroblog, along with 50(+) others.  I have already written it, though I am letting it brew for a few days, editting as I see fit.  I am eager to see where this joint effort goes, as I think it is critical that the term and concept(s) not be lost to popular trends and catch-phrases.

As I was writing my post, I realized that "missional" is, at its simplest, an adjective, meaning it is a descriptive word, a word that describes a noun. While this distinction does shift the meaning of "mission", that root still requires definition.  Part of the reason that the word "missional" gets misused is that the underlying definition of what the mission is.  Of course, many people simply use it too casually and thus misrepresent it, but there are others who use it as an adjective for their different understanding of mission.

I strongly affirm and advocate for our effort to present a better, truer and more Biblical paradigm of missionality.  However, just as other terms and concepts within Christianity are used differently than we might (even if they are used improperly), we must be careful to become to proprietary about the term "missional".  Without intending to we can communicate that we have the corner of God's mission, thus alienating and even dismissing our other sisters and brothers in Christ.

I say this, not because I feel that the Syncroblog is wrong or representing the problem I just stated.  Obviously, as a participant, I believe it is well worth the time and energy.  Rather, I think we must be intentional the approach this conversation- as with any conversation, be it theological or otherwise- with humility, grace and openness.  Not the patronizing, lip-service acknowledgment of others, but a genuine commitment to respect and attend to others who see things differently.

At any rate, I am excited about Monday's posting for everyone.  See you then!

Missional Synchroblog What Is Missional?