Building Culture
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
What is culture?
Culture is frequently discussed in the news, in schools, and in communities. When someone reads about history, authors often discuss the effects of culture on a particular people.
But again, what is culture?
Webster’s Dictionary defines culture as the “beliefs, customs, arts, etc. of a particular social group, place, or time.”
With this understanding, what do the cultures you live in each day look like? The reality is that we all live in a number of cultures, whether it be at home, at school, in the community, or even at Good Shepherd.
I would argue that one of these cultures should lay the foundation for all the others you live in: the culture of Good Shepherd. Why, you might ask? Because the culture of Good Shepherd should anchor our families and members in Jesus Christ, and His Word should lead us out into the world, the places we travel, and the people we encounter.
St. Paul wrote, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.” (Romans 12:2)
When we understand culture properly and have Christ as the One who forms and transforms us, Christ begins changing whatever culture we engage through us.
For this reason, the culture of Good Shepherd must be formed in and through Jesus Christ. Nothing less will do.
So what should you take away from this? Don’t leave Jesus at Good Shepherd; keep His Word close to you throughout the days and weeks of life, so that the culture of the world will be changed through His Word.
In Christ,
Pastor Rogness
