I have said it before, but it bears repeating. We are creatures that crave connection and by design are created for community. By definition, it's simply a social, religious, occupational, or other group sharing common characteristics or interests and perceived or perceiving itself as distinct in some respect from the larger society within which it exists (dictionary.com). In the ecclesiastical sense, it's a group of men or women leading a common life according to a rule.
Community means you have a commonality-- a neighborhood, a school, an interest or hobby, but it can also be an philosophy or ideology. A church community is supposed to reflect the love of Christ. From the outside looking in, it is made up of such diversity it doesn't make sense. There are vast differences in socio-economic status, nationality and geographic location, music style preference, and the list goes on and on. The singular connection is Christ. However, it's not only this common connection, but the fact that we gather that makes us a community.
Did you know that Redwoods grow in community? You won't find a singleton on it's own.
A single tree can grow to 300 feet or more, yet its root system is only 6 to 12 feet deep. A Redwood can’t grow to be the tallest tree on earth alone. It needs the support and protection of other trees in the forest to grow tall. Redwoods create the strength to withstand powerful winds and floods by extending their roots more than 50 feet from the trunk and living in groves where their roots can intertwine.
Here in Texas, we have groves of Cypress that grow in much the same way. I later discovered that Redwoods are part of the Cypress family of tress. The Redwoods and Cypress trees reflect God's design not only for his creation, but also for his church. We need each other in order to flourish. There is no such thing as Lone Ranger Christianity. Instead of digging down deep, we need to stretch out wide (arms and hearts wide open) in community and in connection.
Unfortunately, as we all have probably experienced, there are some who are not willing to take this call for embodied worship and physical gathering seriously. It's why I have felt the urgency to be intentional to reach out to those who are both needing and willing to engage in face to face to friendship. I can tell you from experience, that I need it. And I daresay you might too. It's also why I'm finding online community an important part of connecting as well. I'm thankful for phones, and texting, and Marco Polo, and Google Hangouts, and yes, even Zoom! While technology can be a double-edged sword, it is certainly a blessing and has aided many in times of need.
All that to say, I'm glad you're here. I love learning from others, love listening and hearing new perspectives, and hope we can encourage one another to live generously, with our time, our full presence, and our love. Simply put, be intentional and consistent. Showing up for others bring it's own measure of joy and blessing. The more we look for ways to give his extravagant love away, we will no doubt draw others in and build community in the process.
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