Another reminder about community

The lesson on independence continues (see previous post).

Today I received an e-mail from the National Director of MPD (Ministry Partner Development). He sends periodic updates to encourage and equip staff in raising their financial support. His e-mail today mentioned the normal human tendency to gravitate toward independence. But as believers, he writes, we are to intentionally move from independence to dependence, from isolation to community. Friends don't let friends do MPD alone.

Hebrews 10:24-25 (NIV) instructs us, “And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another--and all the more as you see the Day approaching.”

He goes on to explain this passage: "The writer acutely understands how vital it is to be connected with each other. Community creates a life-giving environment where we can push and encourage each other to persevere to do the right things. Acknowledging our need to be connected to others while working on our support empowers the discouraged and turns procrastination brought about by fear into courage. Joining together in community with others acts as a catalyst for ideas. It helps you reject the lies of the enemy and embrace the truths of God."

I hope this encourages you to consider how you can be involved in a life-giving community. More thoughts later on what this actually looks like.