Ironically the internet has helped fuel a new tribalism, because it’s so easy to find and stick with a narrowly-defined group of people who share our own interests and values. We find a similar trend in our churches – like-minded people gathered together, giving us comfort and security. We feel safe inside our own walls, happy in our comfort zone.

But the comfort zone isn’t where we are called to be as Christian disciples. Discipleship means following Jesus and practising all he taught, including the “impossible” ideas like loving your enemies and turning the other cheek. Discipleship means that instead of seeking comfort we need to be feeding the hungry, healing the sick, visiting the prisoner – not just people like ourselves, but whoever and wherever they are – because as disciples we see that the image of God is in everyone.

Jesus told his followers to “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father.” (Matthew 5:16)

I think these familiar words are key to understanding how discipleship, and leadership, work in the Church and in the world. It’s always tempting to choose the easier way, and enclose ourselves in our own small, comfortable world.

And so to follow our calling we need to constantly renew our commitment and take stock of what we’re doing.

This month leaders from some of World Vision’s partner churches will gather in Melbourne. I’m looking forward to sharing a time of prayer and reflection, energy and ideas as we tackle the challenge of thinking and working “beyond our walls”. I hope you will join us in spirit, wherever you are.