Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud, but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. – Romans 12: 9 – 16
My prayer for you today is that you open you heart to be hospitable. That you seek friendships and community in the people around you. You need them and they need you. Together the body of Christ is strong & untied. Praying that your eyes will be open to the people around you, that your heart would be softened, and that you will live in harmony.
None of us in this community group are perfect. We are flawed and daily need God’s grace. But we are dedicated to each other and dedicated to the Lord. And even in our brokenness, the Lord can use us to shine Him. What a beautiful thing redemption is!
Have you heard of Soma Church? They're all about Missional Communities as a way to introduce people to the love of Christ and support one another through life. They see small groups as more than just meeting once a week but actually sharing life together- it sounds kind of like what you guys are doing. I thought you may find some of their teachings helpful (if you haven't heard of them before)- their leader Jeff Vandersteldt does some great sermons over at wearesoma.com
Thank you for your beautiful words about community. I loved how you said its beautiful and messy all at the same time and the people we choose to share everything with only helps us grow in God's grace. Exactly what I needed to read today 🙂
You are so right! There is nothing better than community. We have been with our group of friends for 5 yrs and now are moving. Which is painful to say goodbye but exciting to know that those people that you have shared life with will always be there.