Community

"So deeply do we care for you that we are determined to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves, because you have become very dear to us." Paul, 1 Thessalonians 2.8

Paul's words are unsettling, because they point to something more than the transaction of ministry... Community.

Community means authentic relationship with other Christians held together in the bond of faith in Jesus Christ and given freedom to grow through the power of the Spirit. Community, then, is an interesting prospect, rewarding and enriching, yet painful and difficult. It is NOT easy, for there are no quick answers, no readily accepted formulae or proscription for how it ought to be. No, there is merely a simple description of mutual presence, shared love, and the mystery of intimacy in the presence of God.

And though we all long to give our hearts to each other in true community, we hesitate. We tiptoe in fear, close in proximity perhaps, but ever reluctant to cross the threshold of deeper relationship. What does it take? Intention for certain, coupled with desire, and springing from a knowledge of our own need for mutual fellowship. But more...

It takes vulnerability--extending our hearts to be held by another. Oh, what danger there may be here! We shudder to think of our naked souls on display for others to see. Will they scrutinize? Will they laugh? Cringe with disgust? It's a risky and formidable endeavor.

It takes an appreciation for candor--willing to give and take words of truth as we seek to sharpen each other in Christ. We all would like to hear an encouraging word, but raw truth is needed as well. The plain, curt, abrupt truth may feel like it rips through our insecurities, ravaging our souls. But, the healing that comes after the initial pain is life transforming. Oh, how few people really speak truth into another's heart, much less are willing to receive it.

It takes patience--a realization that community is a painfully long endeavor. Once we enter the realm of genuine relationship, we realize we are not as complete as we might like to appear to others. We don't have it all in our hands, and we are not in control. And that's OK! We don't need to be. Hence the purpose of community. We find our completeness in the process of growing together. We are the Body of Christ--one body, many members--synergistically growing together. Christian maturity means relying on each other for wholeness, meted out over a lengthy process of sharing in the mutual love of friends and Christ, tested over time and confirmed by the labor of love.

How, O Lord, do we experience this community in a society that does not value relationships? In a world of transitory lives, beset by easily shifted commitments and selfish, consumer-minded values? In a culture of quick fixes and the pleasure of momentary happiness, which eschews long term fulfillment and deep love?

And how, O Lord, do I in the context of ministry, do as Paul has done... How do I pour out not only the good news of your amazing love, but also myself to others in deep friendships?

Stepping forward,
JON