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How To Connect Cross-culturally And Embrace The Nations
by Pastor QT Nyathi We live in a cosmopolitan society; a curious mixture of cultures and languages. This is true in both corporations and churches. Homogeneity is becoming rare with heterogeneity ruling the roost in most countries. As the home of the nations the church of Jesus Christ must take the lead in showing the world how to embrace other cultures. The gospel is inclusive by nature, not exclusive. Here are several ways you can use to bond with other cultures: Sing A Classic In A Different Language Music is a universal language that transcends culture. A good way to connect with another culture is to sing a Christian classic in that particular culture's language. It adds a different flavour and texture to the song while opening the door for that particular group to come in. Incorporate Other Nationalities In Your leadership Team Church leadership structures must reflect the combo of cultures found in that particular society. And so a church sited in a predominantly Spanish-speaking area must have a Spaniard in its leadership team. The same principle holds for different tribes found in a place. When this happens, people of that particular tribe or nationality easily identify with the church. And the cherry on top is that each and every tribe and tongue has some inherent strengths that it brings to the team, thus making it more balanced. Go On A Short Missions Trip There is no better way to embrace a people than living among them, even visiting for a short while. Take a short break off work and go on a short mission trip to another country. Not only will the trip impact your hosts, it will change you as well. You will learn so much from them and they will forever hold a special place in your heart. Learn How To Say Hallo In Another Language A greeting is a big door that opens a way into a person's heart. Another fun way of integrating with other cultures is learning how to say hallo in various languages. As your tongue twists and turns as your attempt to articulate the greeting, your hearts will become intertwined. Holiday Outside Your Country Plan to have your next holiday outside your country's borders. During your vacation sample the country's cuisine, enjoy its wonderful sights and sounds, and above all interact with the people. Also take time to visit churches during your break. You will fall in love with the country and its people in the process. Widen Your Circle Of Friends God's love is like a circle, a circle big and round. As a believer you must exude the very love and presence of Christ. Let your circle of friends include people of other nations. With the convenience of modern technology, one can maintain friendships with people in distant lands with ease. Invite Nations To Your Church God's house is a house of prayer for all nations. (Mark 11:17) Let your church be a vibrant local church with a global mentality. Bring in speakers from other countries and continents to share your pulpit. Invite the world to your conferences. Embracing other cultures is a prelude to heaven. Heaven will be abuzz with all kinds of nations, tribes, and tongues worshipping the Lamb in their own way. After this I looked, and behold, a great multitude that no one could number, from every nation, from all tribes and peoples and languages, standing before the throne and before the Lamb, clothed in white robes, with palm branches in their hands, and crying out with a loud voice, "Salvation belongs to our God who sits on the throne, and to the Lamb!" Revelation 7:9-10 (ESV) Pastor QT is a published author, copywriter and speaker. His sincerity, wit and candid style have endeared him to many hearts. His book DELIVERANCE UNPACKED has been warmly received globally. He conducts spicy marriage and singles seminars with his feisty wife Bonani. Article Source: http://www.faithwriters.com |