As I write this I am in a Starbucks (shocking) across from the Prudential Center, overlooking the streaming masses that have already at 6 in the morning begun to fill the streets. It's hard not to be overwhelmed by the challenge of winning a city to Christ, or a town. My morning readings from McCheyne reveal two important principles to guide our ministry among them.
Psalm 127.1 includes the words, "Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain." The best of intentions, involvement and carefully planned programs cannot compensate for the lack of prayer and dependence upon God. But prayer and dependence upon God will compensate for the lack of those. I have always liked the picture of Nehemiah's warriors, on the wall, working with one hand and holding a weapon in the other (Nehemiah 4.17). This is the balance we must strike in ministry to the city.
In Matthew 11, Jesus denounces the cities that had rejected His message. He thanked His father, "that you have hidden these things from the wise and understanding and revealed them to little children; yes, Father, for such was your gracious will." We should not be surprised when our gospel is rejected, and we should prayerfully consider how to reach our cities, but ultimately it is the responsibility of unbelievers to repent.
God alone is able to transform individuals and cities. Our part is staying awake, as the disciples in Gethsemane.
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