Coronavirus restrictions may have upset our familiar lives, but they are proving to be effective. Our obedience is increasing the possibility of the world’s recovery from the pandemic. Individually and collectively, by seemingly insignificant acts such as of mask-wearing, keeping a safe distance, swiping QR codes, working in essential services, checking on neighbours and getting vaccinated, we are participating in restoring health and life to the people of the world. We are doing our part.

In faith terms we can think of our actions as participating in God’s presence and work in our world. God is mission: continually loving the universe into life. This makes mission the context of our lives — right now with the pandemic at its height — and the context of all creation. There is one mission and that is coming from God. We are joining God in loving the world to healing and wholeness.

Jesus did not have a mission of his own. Jesus lived and died at a particular time in Earth history, showing us what God’s mission is like, giving us practical information about God’s dream for the universe and for all life in Earth.

Then from the reflection on Jesus’s life, death and resurrection through the inspiration of the Spirit, the Church developed as a tool in God’s mission. We do not claim that the Church has a mission. Rather, God’s mission has a Church. Like Jesus, the Church participates in God’s mission and it gives us a community to strive with.

But God’s mission is more than the Church. Every aspect of goodness, justice, joy and kindness is a sign of God presence in creation, of God’s mission, of God’s dream of a healthy world. Just as our obedience in the pandemic is a contribution to the life of the world, so our acts of love and service are engaging in God’s mission.

With this understanding in mind we asked the contributors to the March issue to share a flavour of their love and service — an aspect of how they live in God’s mission. What influences, beliefs, experiences or values have formed them to participate in making life better for others? As you’ll read, the responses are familiar and profound. They suggest energy, compassion and effort. They remind us that what appears to be ordinary life is in fact a context of creativity, love and goodness.

We thank all our contributors for their thoughtful, generous contributions. In reflection, research, writing, art and craft they have provided a little feast to sustain us through Lent. We are grateful.

And as is our custom, our last words are of encouragement and blessing.

Tui Motu Magazine. Issue 257 March 2021: 2