Engagement in the Myrtle Collaboration: A Journey through the Multifaith Action Project and Personal Calling
By: Mr. Dennis Williams, St. Paul Family Life Education Center, Boise, ID
Engaging with the Myrtle Collaboration and working with the Multifaith Action Project (MAP) our collective diverse beliefs, the one common thread that unites us all, the profound love for Jesus Christ. While our individual theological perspectives may vary, we are bound together by a shared commitment to follow the teachings of Jesus and answer His calling to serve others, particularly those in need within our community.
At the heart of our collective faith is the unwavering principle of keeping God first in our lives. This guiding light illuminates our path, providing direction and purpose to our existence. As believers, we recognize the centrality of God in our spiritual journey and strive to anchor our lives in His divine wisdom and love.
My journey and personal calling is embracing the essence of Jesus’ teachings, I find in my participation with MAP that the true calling lies in selfless service to others. His example becomes our compass, pointing us towards a life dedicated to compassion, empathy, and benevolence. In a world often marked by division, our unity in MAP is forged through the common goal of extending a helping hand to those who are marginalized, vulnerable, or struggling within our community.
The essence of MAP is the collective mission beautifully captured in the words of Jesus, who implored us to love our neighbors as ourselves. This commandment serves as the cornerstone of our shared commitment to be instruments of positive change in the lives of those around us. By keeping our focus on this fundamental principle, we transcend theological differences and foster a spirit of unity that reflects the universal love Jesus embraced.
MAP is establishing itself as a resource to our community not merely a duty; it is a privilege and an expression of our faith in action. We recognize that true worship extends beyond the confines of religious rituals it manifests in our interactions, our deeds, and our genuine concern for the well-being of others. As we unite in this common purpose, we become channels through which God’s love flows, touching the lives of those who may be grappling with adversity, loneliness, or despair.
The strength of my personal journey in MAP lies in the ability to stand together, shoulder to shoulder, irrespective of doctrinal nuances with others and serving like Jesus. In our shared commitment to serve, we discover the transformative power of collective action. The impact we can make as a unified community far exceeds what any individual or congregation could achieve in isolation.
The concept of “keeping God first” is not a mere slogan; it is a guiding principle that shapes our priorities, decisions, and interactions. It prompts us to reflect on whether our endeavors align with the values Jesus exemplified during His earthly ministry. Through this conscious effort to prioritize the divine in our lives, we cultivate a deeper connection with God, strengthening the foundation of our faith and empowering us to navigate life’s challenges with grace and resilience.
In essence, our shared journey is a testament to the profound truth that, despite our diverse beliefs, we are united by a common love for Jesus and a shared commitment to embody His teachings. By working together for the singular purpose of serving others in need, we not only fulfill the calling of our faith but also contribute to the creation of a more compassionate, inclusive, and harmonious community a reflection of the love and grace bestowed upon us by the Savior we all hold dear.