If you’ve ever traveled the subway system in London, then you’ve heard the lovely British accent each time the subway doors open, cautiously warning you: “Mind the gap, please” as you step off the train. This phrase has been echoing in my mind for several days now, after hearing about some interesting findings.
Based on recent research by John Mark Comer, around 65% of Americans identify as Christian. However, he began to dig deeper to determine the amount of people who are actively following Jesus. He defined this as people who go beyond attending church on a regular basis, whose faith isn’t mere head knowledge, but their lives reflect the way of Jesus. Comer says this number drops to closer to 4% of Americans.
This is not what Jesus died for. Such sobering findings broke my heart, but have also stirred me to ponder. How do we shrink the gap between the 4% and the 65%?
To begin with, I need to focus inwardly with an honest look at my heart and actions:
In what areas of my life am I just going through the motions or checking boxes?
Am I merely seeking head knowledge instead of heart transformation?
Am I honoring Him with my relationships, decisions, rhythms, and actions?
I don’t want to be someone who merely identifies as a Christian. I want to live a life in which people look at me and can tell I’m His follower. And, I believe you do, too. There’s too much at stake. The world isn’t changed by apathetic Christians; it’s changed by those who’ve been set ablaze by His grace and can’t help but share it with others! The gap between the 4% and the 65% shrinks each time one of us chooses to apply the teachings of Jesus and each time we share His love within our communities.
This also explains the mission and vision of Echo Joy Collective! If you’re new to EJC or unclear about our design, this is it! Our purpose is to offer opportunities for women to grow closer to Jesus, thereby doing our part to help shrink the gap.
If this sounds like a lofty, God-sized goal, we agree! We believe if our mission doesn’t scare us a bit, then we aren’t doing what God has called us to do.
We aim to keep it simple by offering events and resources. Check out the opportunities below!
Perhaps you, too, desire to reflect the life of the One you follow. We would love for you and your friends to join us! In the meantime, let’s unite in this simple prayer and see where He leads us:
“Jesus, help me to mind the gap and be part of its resolution. Open my heart to anyway in which I’m not following You. Give me the eyes to see and the courage to live a life that reflects Yours and inspires others.”
You are loved more than you know.
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