This year RenewalWorks, a ministry of Forward Movement, has been thinking a lot about the notion of discipleship. We use this word often in church, but do we understand what it means to live our lives as a committed follower of Jesus? Discipleship requires knowledge and understanding of Jesus and his teachings. It requires dedication and a sustained effort and sometimes transformation. It is also requires simple personal connection – both with God and others. (I hope you had the chance to read the January 8^th blog post from Robert Hendrickson, Forward Movement’s Director of Discipleship. He penned a powerful reflection on his definition.)

At our fall retreat Robert asked the Forward Movement staff to write their definition of discipleship and to give examples of how we have experienced it in our own lives. It was an interesting question with many different responses. Ultimately the discussion led to how we each can see our own work as an act of discipleship.

RenewalWorks has long held that a key part of creating a culture focused on discipleship includes leadership committed to deepening their own spiritual growth and to fostering that in all relationships. We call this the Heart of the Leader.  When we work with church groups, they automatically assume this is a clergy responsibility. The rector certainly sets the tone but imagine how impactful it could be if lay leaders - wardens, vestry members, staff and lay ministers - also model and commit to actively deepening their relationship with God and each other.

What does it look like to encourage and model discipleship in your life and your church? Churches we work with find this can be done through small intentional changes.

Twice each week the Forward Movement staff come together to read Forward Day By Day (FDD) and to share prayers. Recently we now include a discussion around the “Moving Forward” statement at the bottom of the reflection. I find I am often inspired by my co-workers’ thoughts and comments to this short contemplative question tying the scripture to everyday life. And, despite many of us working remotely, the discussions are a venue for knowing each other a little better and a little deeper. This tweak has become a spiritual practice with a big impact.

I wonder how you define discipleship. Where are the places and people who inspire you to deepen relationship with God and your fellow neighbors? And finally, how might you serve as that inspiration to others?