By MAD21
Community is defined as "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."
We are all parts of different communities: Work; school; the gym where we work out; play groups; hobbie groups; church. I think God created the concept because it is so vital to our growth as individuals. There are probably countless studies that support the importance of being included in groups if you want to live happier lives. But I don't think it's only about us all finding our place, being accepted and loved and 'living happily ever after." Though the world would have us believe that. I believe community is more important than that. Community is living beyond ourselves. Looking outside of our own needs sometimes to see what others may need and putting them first. God created us to need each other. In his own words he says that it was not good for man to be alone (Genesis 2:18).
God's community within the church is very important. But that community isn't meant to only serve and love those already part of the group. It is meant to be so much more. It's true that we need to be with people who believe as we do, to learn and grow and worship God as one 'unified group." However, we can't be so wrapped up in our own community that we forget that ...other community. There are so many lost and lonely people out there that need to be part of our community. They are searching for something more. They may not know what it is, they may deny God at first. But inside they know they've been lied to by this world. They know there is truth out there. They just need someone to help them find the hope that's tucked away in all of us.
Are you running? Do you know someone who is running? Would your community of believers be willing to reach out to someone who needs you to chase after them? We can't allow ourselves to think our community is "distinct from larger society" so much that we don't see those that need Christ as much as we do. They aren't hard to find. They look just like you and me. So put on your running shoes.
Be sure to read Bridget's post on Community and
find links to the other posts.
Bridget is a friend and fellow blogger lives in Washington state, and is a wife and mother to two awesome teenagers. Be sure to go to check out what she has to say as she tries to Make a Difference, One Word At A Time.