A World On The MoveMuestra

There Is Hope for the City!

We hear so much talk about global urbanization, but the numbers are confusing. In some instances cities are seen as places of opportunity and in others they are seen as places of despair. Which is it? Explore through today’s Missiographic why both opportunity and despair exist, and see how God is working in the midst of urban settings.

Cities will clearly dominate this century; with up to 70% of the world’s population living in an urban setting by 2050. Globally 31% of urbanites live in slums. What does this mean for reaching the lost and representing Christ? How do we deal with the paradox of urban settings that promise new opportunity but many times deliver pain and suffering?

Personal Reflection
Do you live in an urban area? If you don’t, do you know someone who does? Chances are that everyone can answer “Yes” to one of those two questions. So what does that mean for you? Have you grappled with what it means to represent Christ in an urban setting? There are more jobs, greater access to services and likely proximity to a church. But there is also rampant crime, emotional isolation, too many choices, and the draw of consumerism. How might you as an individual respond to these positives and negatives in your personal outreach?

Prayer

Thank You, God, for all the blessings You have given me where I live today. Help me to see how I can reach out to others in Your name right here. Please be active through Your people in cities around the world—reaching out for Your Kingdom.

Click here to access this free Missiographic and sign up for future Missiographics: http://www.gmi.org/services/missiographics/library/2014/there-hope-city/