Go Softly: Missio Dei

Go Softly: Missio Dei

The Go Softly model emphasises the vital role of relationships in carrying out the mission of God, a concept known as Missio Dei.

What is Missio Dei?

Missio Dei, meaning “the mission of God,” is a theological concept that recognises God as the sender, initiator and sustainer of mission. This understanding shifts the focus from the Church’s activity in mission to God’s overarching purpose for the world. God’s mission encompasses the whole of creation, as He seeks reconciliation, restoration, and healing in all things (Colossians 1:19-20). The Church is called to participate in this divine mission, owned by God not by the Church, joining in with what God is already doing in the world, rather than creating mission from human effort alone.

At the heart of Missio Dei is the idea that mission is relational—rooted in the very nature of God, who is a relational being. The Trinity—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—exists in perfect, loving relationship, and this relational nature overflows into God’s mission. Humanity is invited into this relationship, and through Jesus, we are called to extend the love, grace, and reconciliation that we have received to others.

The Role of Relationship in the Mission of God

The Go Softly model aligns with Missio Dei by emphasising that relationships are foundational to mission. Here’s why:

1. Mission Begins in Relationship with God

Our ability to participate in God’s mission starts with our relationship with Him. In John 15:5, Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me, you can do nothing.” Mission flows out of our abiding in Jesus, drawing strength and direction from our relationship with Him. The more deeply we know and experience God’s love, the more we are equipped to share it with others.

The Go Softly model recognises that our primary task is to be with God, just as we are called to be with people. This echoes the contemplative aspects of mission, where listening to God’s voice and following His leading are more important than charging ahead with our own agendas.

2. Building Relationship with Others Reflects God’s Heart

The mission of God is deeply relational because God’s heart is for people. John 3:16 reminds us that “God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son.” The cross is the ultimate demonstration of God’s relational nature, as He gave Himself for the sake of restoring relationships between humanity and Himself, as well as between people.

The Go Softly model’s emphasis on building relationships is a direct reflection of this truth. Rather than seeing mission as a project or a set of tasks, it’s about forming authentic, deep relationships with people. This takes time, patience, and trust, and it requires a willingness to meet people where they are, not just where we want them to be. When we build relationships in this way, we mirror God’s covenant love, which is committed, steadfast, and not dependent on immediate results.

3. Living Life Together: Mission as Community

One of the hallmarks of Missio Dei is that it invites us to participate in mission together, as a community. The Church is called to live out God’s mission collectively, embodying the kingdom of God in how we relate to one another and to the world. Acts 2:42-47 offers a powerful image of the early church living life together—sharing meals, praying, and caring for one another’s needs. It was through these deep, shared relationships that the early believers “found favour with all the people” (Acts 2:47), and the church grew.

In the Go Softly model, living life together becomes a central aspect of mission. Rather than seeing mission as something we do to others, it’s about being part of the same community, experiencing the joys and struggles of life alongside one another. In this way, the church becomes a visible sign of the relational love of God, inviting others into a shared life of grace, forgiveness, and restoration.

4. Patient, Relational Mission: Trusting God’s Timing

Often, the Church’s approach to mission can be characterised by urgency and a desire to see quick, measurable results. However, the Go Softly model encourages a patient, relational approach to mission, trusting in the slow, transformative work of God. This aligns with the principle of Missio Dei, which reminds us that mission is God’s work, and He is not in a hurry.

The mustard seed parable (Matthew 13:31-32) shows us that the kingdom of God often begins in small, unassuming ways but grows into something far greater than we could have imagined. By taking the time to build relationships and live life together, we create space for the Holy Spirit to work in profound, often hidden ways. Mission becomes less about driving change through our own efforts and more about faithfully participating in the work God is already doing in people’s lives.

Conclusion: Relationship at the Heart of Mission

The Go Softly model aligns with the concept of Missio Dei, as it recognises that mission is fundamentally about relationship—first with God, then with others. By prioritising presence, deep relationships, and shared life, this model invites us to participate in God’s mission in a way that reflects His relational, patient, and loving nature. It’s a mission that doesn’t rush ahead but walks alongside, trusting that as we go softly, God’s kingdom is being revealed in the world.