Pursuit

              As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to one hope when you were called; one Lord, one faith, one baptism; one God and Father of all, who is over all and through all and in all. (Ephesians 4:1-5)

            In The Incarnational Church, the author quotes another writer who said, "If you try to pursue oneness among pastors simply for the sake of oneness alone, it more than likely will not happen." This idea is not limited to pastors, and it’s not limited to unity. If anyone pursues anything for the sake of that thing alone, it’s not likely to happen – or if it does, it won’t be the answer we wanted it to be. On the other hand, he suggests that if the pastors get together around reaching the city with the gospel, they are likely to find ways to accomplish that goal that will involve their united effort.

            Dallas Willard talks about a similar idea in Renovation of the Heart. There are “parts” of us that need to change: our minds, hearts, souls, bodies, and relationships. It won't work out if we try to apply our will to our minds (thoughts and emotions). But if we set a big goal, like serving others for 2 hours per week, we’re likely to see changes in our minds, hearts, souls, bodies, and relationships. As Professor Willard put it, sometimes we must accomplish things indirectly. What comes to my mind is the idea of collateral benefit or maybe a collateral bonus. I like that idea, and I will have to keep my eyes out for it.