How does change happen?

More than ever in South Africa we need active citizenry, says Neil Hart, executive head of the Mergon foundation. When individuals and groups come together with the purpose of creating beneficial, lasting, Kingdom transformation in the lives of communities, it allows for the peace and prosperity of the majority.?

Mergon works with over 100 ministry partners across Africa and the Middle East as well as business leaders and investors who share a deep desire to bring this kind of change. But how does lasting change happen and why does it take so long??

Commodification?

The reality is that we live in an era of the commodification of civic participation. We sign up for an online petition, we buy from certain stores that we believe do good, we give to charities, we stand at a comfortable distance. What should be the beginning of our involvement is often the end. We need more deep involvement.?

Kingdom transformation?

At Mergon, we are compelled by the idea of Kingdom transformation. We believe that Jesus came to bring the Kingdom of God to earth and that His Kingdom is advancing through all the difficulties of human living on planet earth.?

How do we see this happening??

Firstly, from the bottom up - not top down. Jesus said the least will be the greatest, that the foot-washer would be the most influential. Therefore it starts with the common individual and not the president.?

Secondly, when individuals are changed. When a tipping point of families transforms the atmosphere of a village, or when a number of skaters or lawyers influence the heart and mind of their urban ‘tribe’.?

This seldom happens fast. It mostly happens slowly and happens in life. This is the long game and it requires us to take a long-term view.?

Lastly, Kingdom transformation accelerates through unity. We have seen the biggest, most catalytic change happen when people and organisations intentionally unite themselves across boundaries to be of one mind and heart to bring change. This is seldom easy. It requires trust that is given and not waiting for trust earned.??

Ephesians 4 urges the unity of the saints for the purpose of the maturity of the church. When a united, mature church hits the streets, nothing will hold it back. It will bring the light of deep kingdom transformation into society.?

Read the full article here: https://mergon.co.za/how-does-change-happen/