Jimbo's Jots

I recently had lunch with a group of youth pastors in the area. We get together once a month to talk youth ministry and usually go eat somewhere. As I’m sitting at one end of the table, I was reminded of the need for community. Last week, I reflected on the tragedy that took place at Oxford High School. I concluded that conversation by reminding each of us to pray for community.

Back to lunch today . . . as I sat there, I had conversations with people I had seen but not really talked much with in a while and for extended period of conversation. There was one of the guys who as youth pastor, just became an elder in his church. So we chatted about how that is going for him. I had another conversation with another youth pastor, who talked about possible additional staff at his church. One other guy talked about a recent church issue in which people left.

So I’m sitting there and thinking, “There are people in other churches that are having these same types of conversations we have had over the last several years.” There is community! There is a connection!

Often times when I’m counseling someone or a couple, I try to encourage them in their complicated (their thoughts, not mine, usually) journey through life to understand their feelings, emotions, thoughts are nothing new. In fact, in many sessions, I will sense the feelings of loneliness and isolation. So, as I’m working with them I remind them of the people that are important in their life that can walk along with them in this journey. They need community! They need connection!

The wise king once said, “If two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?Though one may be overpowered, two can defend themselves. A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” (Ecclesiastes 4:11-13, NIV) Jesus encourages us with these words, “Truly I tell you that if two of you on earth agree about anything they ask for, it will be done for them by my Father in heaven. For where two or three gather in my name, there am I with them.” (Matthew 18:19-20, NIV)

The reality is this . . . you are never alone! If you are believer and you have believer friends, you are always part of a community!! And remember Jesus’ promise, “I am with you always!” (Matthew, 28:20)

So be blessed in your community and be a blessing to others along the way!