The Value of Community

Last Sunday we debuted this new promo video for LifeGroups. The people in the video run the gamut from being Community Leaders to LifeGroup Leaders to just simply LifeGroup members. It was fascinating to talk to them all about what their group means to them and the impact that they see their group having on them personally and the community at large.

One of things that I mention in the video is the fact that we see small groups as a place where we can come together and become more like Jesus. In truth, I see that being a large part of the goal in all areas of church. The small group, however, is one of the most opportune places for individuals to come together and be real with each other, and when that happens, God begins to move in incredible ways.

Maybe you aren’t familiar with small groups. Maybe you come from more of a Sunday School background. Maybe you’ve never spent much time around church and don’t really see the value in meeting with a group of people. The Bible is pretty clear, however. We were created to be in community with each other. We were created with a need to be supported, encouraged, challenged and held accountable by the body of Christ…and it truly is an amazing thing to see our LifeGroups become that to individuals. It’s what Christian community is all about.

In the book “Creating Community,” Andy Stanley and Bill Willits talk about the fact that Americans are more private than ever. In fact, the authors note that many of today’s architects intentionally design homes to promote privacy and seclusion. We value the ability to be alone…which I find bizarre. But, maybe it isn’t so strange. Maybe we think that being alone is easier that maintaining relationships. Maybe we think that it is better than sharing our junk with other people. I don’t think I would totally disagree. It is easier…but, it’s not necessarily better. LifeGroups provide us with an opportunity to meet people who are in the same boat as us…and to grow together with them. Maybe you think there is no one out there feeling what you’re feeling…but, you would be wrong.

So, what are you waiting for? Maybe you don’t go to my church, but I have no doubt that your church has some form of community that you can engage with. Relationships aren’t always pretty…but, they are always worth it! Plus, as you become more like Jesus, you begin to see outside of yourself. No longer is it just about you and your issues. It’s about what you can do to help those you encounter. It’s about who you can influence for the sake of Jesus. Just think…there may be someone out there whose eternity is dependant on you seeking to be in community with them. Don’t miss that opportunity!