How Then Shall We Live?

The Commission 20s and 30s event was an incredible opportunity to reset, reflect and enjoy God's presence in community and fellowship with a wonderful group of people from across many churches. We gathered at Hope Church Winchester for the day and delved into the theme of, ‘How Then Shall we Live?’. We explored what it means and looks like to live radically differently in the current culture we are part of. Seminars ranged across so many topics from marriage and family, to the use of AI and just about anything in between.

Worship and Personal Reflection

The day began with an incredible time of worship, which helped me to leave behind the pressures of the week and draw near to God again. I struggle to find time to stop and be still with God during the week, so worship became the perfect time to rest in the presence of the Holy Spirit. I really felt a refreshing of God’s Spirit and the readiness of my heart to receive His word and teaching.

Opening Talk: Chris Kimbangi

The opening talk by Chris Kimbangi explained the day's focus. He highlighted for me how much God seeks our hearts and reminded me of the power God has to heal and restore through his abounding grace. It was so encouraging to be reminded of the heart of God and given practical ways we can reflect this love in our friendships, workplaces, and wider communities.

Seminar: Technology and Faith with Mike Walker

I then chose to listen to Mike Walker's seminar on our relationship to technology. Having grown up in a world of tech that is constantly advancing, I was interested to hear another Christian's perspective on how social media, AI, and other forms of technology can be used for good in the Kingdom and how they can also hinder or distract us from our relationship with God and others.

The main thing I took away from this seminar was that “we are formed in the image of what we habitually gaze at.” This helped shift my perspective on my interaction with tech, especially social media. Mike spoke about being “captivated by something better”. This helped me practically begin considering ways I can replace my sometimes extensive use of technology with something that draws me closer to God and reveals more of His Kingdom to me. Something that captivates my heart more deeply than the quick release of dopamine that comes from doomscrolling for hours at a time!

Seminar: Understanding My Purpose

The other seminar I attended looked at the theme of ‘Understanding my Purpose’. This also fell at a well-timed moment in my life, as I began to consider the terrifying question: “What do I want to do with my life?” I certainly left feeling much less terrified and actually excited to journey with God into this next season. Peter and Priscilla shared their journeys with us and helped us understand ‘purpose’. I learnt that purpose, at its core, is “To enjoy, express, and extend the kingdom of God by maturing in the fruit of the Spirit.” The beauty of this, I have found, is that it’s an incredibly portable approach. I can apply this attitude and way of living in my job, friendships, and family. Purpose is not a specific job or achievement; it is a way of living that I can do anywhere and everywhere, which provides purpose and meaning to my life and positively impacts those around me.

Community and Closing Worship

To finish the day, we shared food together, which was delicious and an amazing way to create and deepen friendships, before joining in worship for a final time that day.

Final Thoughts

Overall, it was a truly encouraging and exciting day of learning, worship and laughter!

The talks and seminars are now available to listen to — click here to enjoy them.