Formed in Living Missionally
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Kansas City Underground podcast, we dive into the second phase of the Disciple Maker Pathway, focusing on living on mission. Join us as we explore the importance of identity formation, the role of 'Bless Rhythms,' and how embracing our identity as God's people transforms our mission. We talk about how these rhythms shape us to become interruptible, generous, curious, and patient like Jesus, and how that propels us to live on our mission.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. From Action to Formation: Why Identity Matters on Mission
The Disciple Maker Pathway is often taught through practices and behaviors.
This episode zooms out to ask: Who are we becoming as we live on mission?
Sustained obedience flows from inner formation, not just external rhythms.
Mission shapes us as much as it reaches others.
2. A Biblical Identity for Life Among Our Neighbors (1 Peter 2)
Followers of Jesus are described as:
A chosen people
A royal priesthood
God’s own possession
Mission flows from identity, not obligation.
Living “properly among unbelieving neighbors” is rooted in becoming a distinct people shaped by mercy, humility, and presence.
3. How Living on Mission Actually Changes Us
Personal stories highlight how proximity to people—especially in hard relationships—forms Christlike character.
Mission exposes selfishness, impatience, and control.
God uses relational discomfort to sand down rough edges and grow love, dependence, and humility.
4. Four Formational Traits God Cultivates in Missional People
Interruptible – Open to divine disruptions instead of protecting personal agendas.
Generous – Sharing space, time, resources, and attention freely.
Curious – Asking questions, listening deeply, and resisting quick answers.
Patient – Trusting God’s timing and embracing slow, faithful presence.
5. Reframing the B.L.E.S.S. Rhythms as “Breathing In”
Begin with Prayer – Becoming people who linger with God and expect Him to speak.
Listen – Cultivating curiosity and humility rather than control.
Eat – Letting shared meals form deep attachment and generosity.
Serve (and Be Served) – Practicing vulnerability, need, and mutual dependence.
Story – Learning to receive and rehearse the gospel personally before proclaiming it outwardly.
6. Formation Happens “Among,” Not Apart
Spiritual maturity cannot develop in isolation from the world.
God forms His people among neighbors, not hidden away from them.
Living incarnationally reveals whether we’ve become the kind of people Jesus would be in our place.
Final Thoughts
Living on mission is not merely a strategy—it is a formation process. As we choose proximity over comfort and presence over efficiency, God reshapes our hearts, habits, and desires. The B.L.E.S.S. rhythms are not just missional tools; they are pathways through which God transforms us into people who embody the love, patience, humility, and generosity of Jesus. Mission is not sustained by willpower—it flows from who we are becoming.
