Formed in Mission with Chris Renshaw
Episode Summary
In this episode of the Kansas City Underground podcast, we continue in our series of interviewing everyday disciple-makers about how they have become more like Jesus as they have joined him on mission. Join us as we interview Chris Renshaw and hear how his work with City Union Mission has been consistently forming his character. Chris shares how embracing vulnerability and genuine connection can lead to profound personal growth and a deeper relationship with Jesus. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that challenges us to live out our faith authentically and intentionally.
Key Themes & Takeaways
1. From Distant Faith to Deep Surrender
Chris grew up in church but experienced Jesus as distant and transactional.
After years away from faith, crisis in 2020 led him to a profound encounter with the Holy Spirit.
A moment of surrender—literally in an embrace—marked a turning point from control to trust.
2. Mission Through Vocational Disruption
After losing his long-term work in the coffee industry, Chris unexpectedly found himself drawn into ministry among the houseless.
He now serves as a resident manager in a long-term recovery program, walking daily with men seeking healing and stability.
What felt like an unlikely context became the primary place of God’s mission in his life.
3. Living Missionally in a Houseless Community
Chris describes day-to-day incarnational presence: transportation, appointments, teaching, and shared life.
Ministry happens through proximity, consistency, and genuine care—not programs or quick fixes.
Formation happens through relationship, not above it.
4. B.L.E.S.S. Rhythms as Everyday Discipleship
The B.L.E.S.S. rhythms are woven naturally into the recovery program’s culture.
Beginning in prayer, listening deeply, eating together, serving one another, and sharing stories restore dignity and connection.
These rhythms transcend neighborhoods and apply across any context.
5. Formation Through Letting Go of Control
Living missionally exposed Chris’s need for control and invited greater surrender.
God has formed in him a welcoming posture—across theology, background, and life experience.
Worship becomes the great equalizer, allowing people to walk side-by-side rather than from a place of superiority.
6. Formation Through Letting Go of Control
Living missionally exposed Chris’s need for control and invited greater surrender.
God has formed in him a welcoming posture—across theology, background, and life experience.
Worship becomes the great equalizer, allowing people to walk side-by-side rather than from a place of superiority.
Final Thoughts
Living on mission is not primarily about adding activities to our lives—it’s about allowing Jesus to reshape who we are as we walk with others. This episode reminds us that formation often comes through disruption, surrender, and shared life in unexpected places. As we join Jesus in everyday contexts, he forms us into people who are welcoming, humble, and attentive to the Spirit. Mission is not something we do to others—it’s something God does in us as we walk together.
