Community

I was looking at YouTube videos the other day, when I found out that Naomi Judd had taken her own life. I was shocked and saddened by this news. Since then, I have watch a few of the last video interviews she gave before her death. In one of those interviews, she said something that made me think... 

"Community is come in unity."

Now, I have no idea if she got that from some other place or if she made it up herself but isn't it a true statement. She was referencing how people need to come together in unity to help the mentally, emotionally, and physically challenged. To help those who need help. To work together as a community to help others in their problems, abilities, or financial hinderances. She was speaking about a homeless man who had sparked the writing of the song "Love Can Build a Bridge."

In the Bible it speaks to unity and community in many ways. 

"And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

This is the verse that I journaled about today. Focusing on the part about not forsaking or neglecting meeting together as some do.... I believe that where two or more are gathered Christ is there and if Christ is there should be worship. That doesn't mean church is the only place you can gather and worship. You can do it on a boat or a pier fishing with some friends. You can have a coffee meeting and worship then. Some people can get together sitting on the floor or around a campfire and worship. And yes, we can worship at church. Don't think I am saying that going to a church building is not ever needed. It is for a Christian be edified and taught the Word; we need that community. 

"I therefore, a prisoner for the Lord, urge you to walk in a manner worthy of the calling to which you have been called, with all humility and gentleness, with patience, bearing with one another in love, eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace."  Ephesians 4:1-3

Paul is saying we need to walk together in the unity of the Spirit, loving one another while bearing with one another. What would that look like to bear with another person? Paul and the Lord knew that it was hard for human beings to understand differences and to overlook those difference to help people who struggle. Humans are impatient, self-centered, and "know it alls", we hate to give an inch to anyone, especially if it is going to get in the way something of importance to self. 

I know some of you are thinking where does this person get off telling me that I am self-centered and impatient? If you are thinking that you are probably answering your own question. I say this because even though I am empathetic and help others when I can, I still can be self-centered, impatient, and just plan fleshly! Human beings are all born with a sin nature, and it raises its ugly head more than I would like to admit! 

 

"Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity."
Psalm 133:1

This verse says when we practice living in community, it is good and pleasant. Oh, how I wish the people on this earth could do this now. Just think how wonderful it would be if we would all choose to live in community, loving and caring for one another. Unfortunately, it will never happen this side of the Millennial Reign of Christ!  When Christ returns to this earth, there will be a war, then 1000 years of peace. I can't wait for that time. We can try to get along and help each other in this world. Stop looking at the differences in people and see the sameness. We all have problems and need love. 

"Finally, all of you, have unity of mind, sympathy, brotherly love, a tender heart, and a humble mind. Do not repay evil for evil or reviling for reviling, but on the contrary, bless, for to this you were called, that you may obtain a blessing."
1 Peter 3:8-9

We are supposed to be loving and caring for others no matter what. I don't know many people who have not heard the golden rule at least once in their life.  

"Do unto others as you would have them do to you!"

That was taught in my classes every year as part of my rules. I taught children to respect each other and the equipment they were allowed to use. The problem is that self-centered fleshy part of our lives get in the way, and we change the rule to fit our needs. Like.... "I will do unto them the way they do unto me!" Or "I will do unto them the way I want them to do unto me until it doesn't serve my purpose any longer!"

I pray that I can learn to be part of the community that helps instead of hinders. That I can share with others in worship no matter the location and that I allow Christ to feel comfortable in those groups. 

People with mental issues like depression and anxiety need people to care for them, not to stigmatize them. I believe that there are many examples of people with "delicate" issues in the Bible and their treatment should be examples to us. Were they treated poorly until God dealt with the offending person soundly, or were they treated with love and community in a way that pleased God and a blessing was had? I pray I am part of the second group. 

Thanks for reading this, not sure how much sense it makes.... 

God bless you all!