The Mandate 2022
Breathe in, and out. Exhale, inhale.
The smiles, the handshakes, arms lifted high, others tucked tightly behind their backs. From the curtain opener, the doors opened at 11:30am; duos scattered across the floor - some at the reception, others on stage, the rest positioned between the dining area and the main auditorium.
“Father, we just ask the bond of unity would grow ever stronger, that your men would take on the mandate with pride and vigor, that your men would be men of valor indeed.”
In came a few sparking initial conversations about how long it took to reach North London, what the event would comprise of, and overall how blessed an occasion this would turn out to be. To God we give the glory, for it was His Spirit who created an atmosphere of gratitude and humility. Praise and worship began, fitting it was to serenade our Father. The icebreaker followed, short and sweet, insightful too as it highlighted the willingness for all to remember the reason for the gathering and create connections amongst people. For some, that looked like reflecting on the past two and a half years spanning the lockdown period to now where their faith level has drastically changed, whilst others were acquainted with friends of friends, and mutuals of mutuals.
A far cry from the typical conversations had on a regular day, age-ranged seminar groups were formed with the discussion point being discipleship, namely, how to be a disciple. The content of the seminars varied between the 13-15 year old group versus those aged 22 and over- the emphasis for the former being the redemptive work of Christ initiating the ‘working out of our salvation’ on Earth rather than simply awaiting for Christ to return again, whilst the latter hailed the Lordship of Christ through the Spirit.
What followed next was some wraps and Subways and meat pies and refreshments and refuelling and gisting and chilling…..
Round two of the seminar followed on- this time it was centred around how to make disciples. Questions were asked, past experiences were shared with the aim of honing in on practical examples of discipleship. Spreading the gospel, intercession, and modelling the message were key points raised, which nicely segued into a Q&A session pertaining to all things manhood. In the end, lives were dedicated to Christ, chains were broken, and relationships formed.
My fellow men, the time is now.
Arise, shine; for your light has come, and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.