Real Community

While in the hospital I was privileged to receive a copy of "Eight Habits of the Heart" by Clifton Taulbert. Mr. Taulbert grew up in the segregated South and in this handbook lays out eight basic principles he learned from his elders. As I read the book, I began to contemplate the need for real community in today's church. During a time when the tyranny of the urgent strangles out vested interest in another or their family, this book brings me back to the reality of how important our heart habits are to healthy community.

Our Celebration Group has grown in their sense of God and community over the past 9 months. They have tackled difficult situations with members of the community without resulting in a separation of community. Their care and concern for one another is truly the reflection of Christ among them. I am challenged as I witness Christ moving among them. Although they may not have achieved all the Bible knowledge, memorization or skills exalted by many churches, they have embraced the concepts of loving unconditionally, serving, and encouraging one another.

Their deep sense of connectedness (for lack of a better word) has brought them to trust and care for each other. As Mr. Taulbert shares these basic principles :
a nuturing attitude, dependability, responsibility, friendship, brotherhood, high expectations, courage and hope...I can see how essential they are to real community. I also realize how absent many of these principles are from todays church. I am reminded of my desperate need for community a few years ago...I had surgery and needed to make an emergency trip to the Dr. After calling a few members of my church, each one said, "If you can't find anyone else, let me know". I wrestled with how many people did I need to call before I could call someone back.

Today I am so thankful for these past 2 years in Bay St Louis. I have had the EXTREME privilege to experience community with residents and volunteers. Being part of a nuturing and caring community has imbedded in my soul the desire to share with others how precious this gift is. Jesus was the great community builder...He took people from different walks of life, occupations and backgrounds and brought them all together....I believe that is what the future of the church looks like...as we face persecution and difficulties it will be essential to have a deep sense of community with one another so that Christ LOVE will be shared with all.

Jesus thank you for teaching us about Love and community. You are such a wonderful example of one who is nuturing, dependable, responsible, a friend, a brother, having high expectations for us, your courage and the hope that is in You alone.....teach me dear Lord, direct my path, open my lips to give you praise and share life giving community with all I meet...love ya d