Love of God made visible: Lent meditation 4

Meditation Four:  Love of God made Visible

‘They are to work with their fellow members in searching out the poor and weak, the sick and lonely and those who are oppressed and powerless, reaching into the forgotten corners of the world, that the love of God may be made visible.’- Ordination of Deacons

The deacon, as a dedicated agent of the Kingdom, bears the holy and humbling responsibility of embodying the love and likeness of Jesus by extending a compassionate hand to the vulnerable, downtrodden, and oppressed within their communities.

Crafting a mission action plan rooted in this vision commences with two fundamental questions: ‘Who among us is the most vulnerable in our community?‘ and ‘In what ways can we wholeheartedly respond with love?’ This missional stance redirects our focus to those who are often overlooked and pushed to the margins, elevating them to the forefront of the church’s mission.

A well-defined job description for a deacon should grant the necessary time and space for these transformative encounters.

The diaconal calling can be likened to that of a rescue ship, venturing away from the safety of the harbour to seek, love, and serve those battered and bruised by the storms of life, those who are close to being dashed against the rocks. The deacon, accompanied by their missional allies, willingly steps beyond the confines of comfort; this is not risk-avoidance but prudent risk management. This courageous movement towards the margins is an embodiment of the heart of Christ, who time and time again tirelessly sought out the broken and the wounded.

In our communities, it is perhaps the isolated elderly, the drug addict, the mentally ill, who are embraced in the deacon’s missional calling.

In these overlooked corners, whether it’s the scruffy bedsits, the rough pub, the care home, or the prison cell, the love of God becomes tangible through food parcels, hugs, a listening ear, a shoulder to cry on, support with utility bills, a warm meal, and conversations about the kindness of King Jesus.

Father of Creation,

God of the Weak and Powerless,

You have called us as deacons to

seek out the hungry and hurting,

the oppressed and lonely.

By your Spirit, give us courage and compassion

to leave the comfort of the harbour to reach those in the storms,

that the love of God may be revealed.

Amen.

Rev Jon Swales

(with thanks to Horizon Church Tucson for the image)