Instead, we will speak the truth in love, growing in every way more and more like Christ, who is the head of his body, the church. He makes the whole body fit together perfectly. As each part does its own special work, it helps the other parts grow, so that the whole body is healthy and growing and full of love” Ephesians 4:15-16 (NLT).

Our God is a relational God: Father, Son and Holy Spirit. By His very nature He is relational and we, who are created in His image, are therefore relational in our essence as well. As a result, we were made to be in community, both with God and one another. 

Sure, community can be both rewarding and sometimes challenging. But I’d say it is worth the investment of our time and energy. After all, God designed us each with unique sets of talents, gifts, and perspectives so that we each have something of value to offer our families, friends, and larger community. 

For instance, the small group I was a part of this past year came together to form the group out of a desire for authentic community and relationships. Most of us didn’t know each other beforehand. We all had different talents and personalities, we were in a variety of life-stages and vocations, and we were at different points on our faith journey. But within that diversity there was unity. There was a common desire to know God more deeply, to be known by others and, to love others well.  

As a result, the Holy Spirit knit us together and helped us “fit together perfectly.”  Maybe not “perfect” in a worldly sense, as in “without flaws.” But “perfect” in a way that God brought our different personalities and talents together to build one another up, to help us lean on and encourage one another. 

Then, throughout the year, as each of us experienced difficult circumstances of one sort or another, we didn’t have to “go it alone.” We had one another to offer encouragement and care through prayer. As a result, I think we became more resilient because of the love of Jesus expressed by the people around us. 

In coming weeks, the church will be offering new opportunities to get connected to a small group. If you are not yet in a group, listen for announcements about how you can get connected this fall. Or hit “reply” to this email and let us know you want to get plugged into a group and we will help get you connected!