Narrowing the GAP

I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. -Jesus, John 10:10
    This year’s theme at Refuge KC is to Narrow the Gap. A gap exists between our New-American neighbors and the abundant life that Jesus promises them in John 10:10. At Refuge KC, we face the gap of language and culture with our other-nation neighbors that continually challenges our ability to connect with them on a daily basis. We see a gap between these nations and the Church in Kansas City and so we have intensified our efforts to close this gap. But the gap that should keep us up at night is the separation that exists between these nations and the God who created them for His glory. This gap should weigh heavily upon us because God has given His Son to bridge the gap. Isaiah 43:6b-7 reminds us “bring my sons from afar and my daughters from the end of the earth, everyone who is called by my name, whom I created for my glory, whom I formed and made.” We want to work together to bring the nations closer to Christ and prevent the eternal suffering of separation from God.
At times, this task seems insurmountable and honestly impossible for us. Yet God has made a way and He has given us His authority to make disciples of all nations. I’m encouraged as I remember this promise: “All authority in heaven and earth has been given to me, therefore go and make disciples among all nations.” Not some authority. Not a little authority. Not limited authority. All authority in heaven and on earth. This is followed by the promise “and behold, I am with you always, even to the end of the age!.” This promise is for us today- all of us- and it is my prayer that we will proceed together as the Church in Kansas City in His authority to narrow the gap between the nations of Kansas City and the God who created them to worship Him! Will you join us? Remember, the outcome is sure: “And this gospel of the kingdom will be proclaimed throughout the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come.” Matthew 24:14 Join us as we join Jesus in a task that cannot fail! Thank you for your partnership with us in advancing the Kingdom of God in Christ!
    Refuge KC is seeking to be the Church’s welcome mat placed before the feet of the nations that God brings to Kansas City. With your help, we will continue to welcome, serve and connect our new-American neighbors with the family of God in the church of Kansas City. We will seek to serve the nations with Gospel-focused ministries of mercy so they might know, love and follow Jesus into HIs Kingdom! We are excited about the future as we cast a vision for narrowing the gap through partnership between the churches of Kansas City and Refuge KC!
~ Richard Casebolt, Founder and Executive Director, Refuge KC