The National Intelligence Council produces a report every five years which looks at global trends and how they will shape the following decade. This report makes for fascinating reading for those interested in causes and effects on a global scale – determining trends, assessing their causes, and extrapolating their probable outcomes.
The main idea of this year’s report is the paradox of progress – that in the achievements of the past decade we are faced with opportunities that are simultaneously more dangerous … and richer. Technology, of course, is behind many of these achievements. The compelling question for us is how Christians step into this scenario – what do we have to say about disruptive technologies, the rise of nationalism, economic insecurity? How do we approach vocations that are key to flourishing yet deeply flawed, or the advancements in biotechnology?
Engagement becomes key to actually, tangibly shaping and reshaping culture. How many are engaging in the redemptive work of our minds, ideas, experiments, relationships, Facebook posts, work responsibilities, child-rearing, and neighborhood needs? The counter intuitive (and necessary) choice today is to step into issues rather than pull away. This is important simply for a healthy culture – Alexis de Tocqueville wrote in the 19th century that the magic of the American political experiment was its citizen activism in voluntary civic organizations. All the more so for a culture reflective of God’s intent.
The events and activities of Christian Union New York revolve around the pursuit of God and redemptive engagement. Whether you are in a Community Group, part of the mentoring program, participating in salons and forums, or leadership development involvement our intent is to equip and inspire for stepping into the growing opportunities around us. Sometimes dangerous, often rich.
Along with a new group of recent graduates joining in New York from universities around the country I’m excited about the growing networks we already see forming here. The next twelve months will be full of possibilities for greater involvement with CU New York and in the city itself. I hope you will join us in engaging New York with the hope of Christ and the transformation of ourselves and the world that he calls us to.
Praying this is an eventful and hopeful summer for you,
Scott Crosby
Ministry Director
Christian Union New York
For more information on New York City Christian Union Bible Courses and activities, or resources available to you please contact Scott Crosby.
Please note: if you would like to receive regular updates, via email, on how to pray for City Christian Union, please email prayer@christianunion.org.
