A presenter at Global Conference on World Evangelization (GCOWE) remarked, “If you are not on fire for God, you’re fired!” He underscored the importance of our hearts being set aflame for Missio Dei, the mission of God.

Here I humbly submit that hearts being set aflame is important especially within a framework of synergetic collaborative partnerships among churches and mission agencies. It would enable the Body of Christ to move closer to the realisation of the vision of sharing the Gospel to every person on the planet earth! By itself, however large and resourceful a particular church or agency might be, it is virtually impossible to reach every unreached people group. However in expressing our organic unity in the Body of Christ, we can reach the world! 

Now we stand at the threshold of ushering the 3^rd decade of the new millennium. The question remains: Where are we in reaching the lost and the least reached? My key proposition is to state that as we face a plurality of forces that hinder the progress of the Gospel, churches and mission agencies must value the synergy of collaborative partnerships as a path towards fulfilling the Great Commission in our generation.  A myriad of challenges remains. One such challenge before us is Covid-19.

Covid-19 pandemic continues to impact the world in an unprecedented way. The socio-economic, political and religious spheres have been awakened to a new reality (a new normal). More than ever before, we need to stand together in solidarity and together, to claim God’s promise of help in times of need in the global landscape. “Lord, bring us unity.”

O Lord, we cry, “Maranatha”! This will naturally be on the lips of our intercession. 

“Lord, come and restore your rightful place in this world plagued by viruses, diseases, conflicts etc.”

Vulnerability is prevalent among the new poor.  The pandemic has impacted business operations from the small stall-holder to large manufacturing plants, and notably the aviation and tourism industries. What happens to workers whose jobs became redundant due to this pandemic? What happens to breadwinners whose salaries have been reduced significantly or worse still, separated from families for prolonged period? “Lord, save the vulnerable community.”

Inform and be informed via the digital transformation. Since travel and border restrictions have been imposed to curb the spread of Covid-19, Information Technology (IT) has taken on a new significance. Those who are quick to ride on this technological wave will probably benefit from being able to maintain connectivity with family, friends and colleagues.  Conversely, those lacking in IT resources or are slow to embrace this new approach will tend to lose out. “Lord, help us remain connected.”

Death as a consequence of Covid-19 has surpassed 1.3 million. Reports of people suffering from depression due to the lockdown is alarming! A recent report states that one suicide takes place every 40 seconds.  “Lord, have mercy on those who are depressed, harbour suicidal thoughts and those suffering from grief and loss.” 

While the global outlook appears dim and gloomy, the community of faith should make every effort to minister to pockets of people within her reach while at the same time, organisations such as SCGM could continue to play a pivotal role in encouraging, mobilising and facilitating synergetic collaborative partnerships in missions to reach the greater community.  

Psalm 19:1 states, “The heavens declare the glory of God, and the sky above proclaims his handiwork.” Together, let’s declare with our hearts aflame, “The Lord is Sovereign and His help is at hand! Amen.”