What could it look like, if we worked together?

Our model for partnership is inspired by a leader from the Old Testament, Nehemiah. The walls of Jerusalem lay in ruins, leaving the city both defenseless and downcast. Burdened by the condition of the city he loved, he led the effort to rebuild the walls. The task was overwhelming. For months, he asked the Lord for favor and developed a general plan. He then gathered partners and resources from various civic and religious groups, inspiring them to work together. He carefully identified the needs and underlying issues, as well as the threats to the project.

He then organized people to work together in teams and in their areas of greatest concern, while helping them see the bigger project they were part of. Nehemiah also encouraged them to have each other’s back, aiding other teams when they were threatened or discouraged. The project was enormous, but by working together, the citizens of Jerusalem soon built a serviceable wall, that not only gave them greater security but also deepened their relationships with one another and increased their affection for their community. 

Likewise, the churches of our network are burdened by the brokenness in our personal lives, churches and community. But we have hope of restoration. And so Arlington Bridge Builders collaborates with churches to identify issues of shared concern.

When two or more churches desire to work together to serve the broader community, we will seek partners, expertise and resources from other churches, non-profits, businesses and civic agencies. Further, churches will be encouraged to “have each other’s back,” supporting one another in the challenges we face.

We won’t all have the same calling and resources to address every need, and so partners are encouraged to serve according to their greatest passion. But as we each work to restore our “section of the wall,” we can be confident we are seeking the flourishing of our community, together.