Called To Care: Turn your passion for change in our world into an action plan

Jo Knight
1 day ago
6 min read

Called to Care by Jo Knight

Published by Inter-Varsity Press UK

Extract from pages 116 - 121

BEING PART OF SOMETHING BIGGER

We have considered how taking actions across the spectrum of our lives and influence matters. We began this journey by exploring our shaping of how God has connected our passions and opportunities and what God may be placing on our hearts.

What’s your vision for significant change in our world? What big problems are specifically on your heart? How might you play a constructive part, using your God-given skills and resources?

The following questions may help you reflect and map the problem and the steps you might take to play a constructive part. Allow yourself time to consider how you might contribute your passions, skills and resources. These questions are set out as an additional planning tool in the appendix.

● Where are you feeling prompted to respond to needs in our world? Perhaps there is a particular issue that you are drawn to.

● What significant change do you want to see in response to this need or challenge?

● Can you identify what specific problems need to be addressed to move towards this hopeful change?

● Identify the key individuals or groups that can deliver this change. Consider why they haven’t already. Identify who or what influences these gatekeepers.

● Plan five key steps to move in the right direction. Identify who you can collaborate with to organise and problem-solve, and find ways to join existing initiatives for collective impact.

● What signs of progress will you look for after taking your five key steps to show that you are heading in the right direction? When will you check in on this progress?

Congratulations on creating your action plan! As you begin to implement it, remain focused and resilient, and remember to adapt when necessary. Collaboration and innovation are essential, so don’t hesitate to connect with others who share your vision. You have the capability to make a difference, and your efforts will have an impact. Stay motivated and continue pushing for the changes our planet needs.

Guiding mentors for the journey

Responding to God’s call with our whole lives is a journey made more meaningful by the mentors who exemplify a faithful life. From the writers whose words stir our souls to the everyday saints whose lives serve as sermons of compassion, mentors embody God’s call in the language of daily life. In Scripture, we see examples of growing and guiding mentor relationships, such as Barnabas shaping Paul through observational learning and shared ministry (Acts 11; 13), Barnabas and John Mark (Acts 15:37–39), Priscilla and Aquila with Apollos (Acts 18:24–26), and Paul mentoring younger leaders such as Timothy and Titus (2 Corinthians 1:1; 1 Thessalonians 1:1; Titus 1:4). These examples reveal God’s good purposes at work through the nurturing, growth and replication among believers that facilitated the spread of the early Church.

We have learned from the models of our contributors, in and through whom we see God’s active presence in our world. Our contributors shared their heart yearnings concerning the brokenness of our world, the way their hands have been at work seeking to heal its wounds, and how they see the community of believers at work in God’s kingdom. They not only serve as models for action but also embody practices of rest, prayer and renewal. For Katharine Hayhoe, it is drawing near to her heavenly Father in the ministry of nature and community and doing what she loves with the people she loves. Katharine explains that she is fighting for our world because of everything and everyone she loves. Dave Bookless finds spiritual nourishment in the whispers of nature, where daily prayer walks and Bible readings deepen his faith and find expression through his local church. And he draws on the encouragement of growing generations taking up the gospel’s call to steward the earth. These are glimpses into holistic lives that model faith in practice.

As we follow the examples set by mentors, we, in turn, shape others, perpetuating a cycle of growth and learning. Mentors remind me of lessons from nature, particularly from the ancient Huon pines found in Tasmania, Australia’s southern protected wilderness. These towering, thousand-year-old trees are testaments to resilience and growth, representing some of our planet’s oldest plant lineages. I was struck by how a fallen Huon pine branch can give life to a grove of new trees. This reminds me of how mentors plant seeds of wisdom and faith that sprout in the lives of those they encounter. Consider again Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 3:6: ‘I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow.’ In this ecosystem of influence, every faithful action can reach outwards, nurturing change in our world.

Earlier, we imagined what the Church could look like, and turned to individuals who practically model holistic transformation as a guide. It may be that the guidance of a mentor will help you put into action your plan for change and response to the topics explored in this book. Here are some considerations if you are looking for a mentor:

● Identify a potential mentor: who in your circle has a vibrant faith, exemplifies godly character and lives with integrity? As we are reminded in 1 Corinthians 11:1, follow a mentor’s example as they follow the example of Christ. In light of the failures of some high-profile Christian leaders, identifying a mentor may feel awkward or tinged with cynicism. While perfection is unattainable, seek out individuals who are earnestly pursuing a life you aspire to emulate, and who can positively influence your journey as a follower of Jesus. Consider whether the individuals you admire can nurture your spiritual growth and guide you towards greater obedience to God.

● Consider church models: recognise the diverse traditions and expressions of Christian mentorship. Whether through informal guidance and observation, formal mentoring, spiritual direction, coaching or the insights of pastors and elders, each plays a role in fostering faith, and one might work better for you than others.

● Set expectations: reflect on what you hope to gain from mentorship. Consider the time you can commit, the frequency and duration of meetings, your preferred learning style and the areas of your life you wish to develop. Being clear about your expectations will help you communicate your hopes effectively with your prospective mentor.

● Seek God’s guidance: dedicate time to prayer, asking the Holy Spirit for wisdom, courage and the necessary resources as you search for a role model.

As we are reminded of the importance of mutual encouragement in Hebrews 10:24–25, may we spur one another on towards love and good deeds. May you be blessed in every step you take towards growth under the guidance and love of God.

Reflection

And so we reach our final reflective moment.

Our contemplation inspires us to take steps forward and gain new perspectives.

Visualise yourself standing at the beginning of a path. This path represents your journey towards a safe climate and a healthy environment. The path stretches out before you, but you can see only a short distance ahead.

Reflect on how your choices and actions will influence larger changes and how you can best amplify the impact through collective efforts. Maybe the wisdom you’ve encountered from across the worldwide Church will guide you, or someone in your life whose faith journey inspires you on your path. Trust in the gifts God has given you as you take steps forward and spread God’s justice and compassion.

Recall Psalm 119:105: ‘Your word is a lamp for my feet, / a light on my path.’

Picture yourself taking steps on this path.

As you move forward, notice how your vantage point changes. Perhaps you can support and encourage others in their journey, even when facing challenges. With each step, you can see a little further ahead, like the lamp lighting the path for your feet. Trust that God will reveal more of the path as you continue further on your journey.

Thank God for this time of reflection and guidance.

We lift up our planet in heartfelt prayer.

We come ready to embrace transformative change.

Empower us to create a lasting and positive impact in the face of environmental challenges, caring for our world and ourselves with the love and dedication you have shown us.

We seek your powerful presence to inspire humanity to end harmful habits that damage our earth.

Guide us towards a safer climate future, harnessing the natural power of trees and seas, and doing so swiftly, safely and justly.

Help us adapt to ongoing changes and build resilience for the future, trusting in your infinite wisdom and strength.

May our prayers and actions bring healing and hope to all people and our planet.

Amen.