Perk-o-lating

This week at church we were exploring the importance of community, and investing in whichever community you're a part of. I'm really glad we went there because I've observed a growing trend of people going off the beaten path as lone wolves with the mindset that they can pursue God better without being tangible connected to the greater body of Christ. That somehow logging on to a few "Christian" websites here and there counts as fellowship.

Talk about an illusion.

Jesus didn't come to create a religion of monks. Yes, some are called to forms of solitude but it's never out of an attitude of bitterness, anger or hurt; but out of a desire to surrender ones will absolutely to the extent that they want it to be reflected in their lifestyle. There are things we can glean from such an expression, but not all of us need to go to such lengths.

I like to go to a local coffee shop and people watch. It has to be the best place to get coffee in Chico, and over the years I've noticed an increase in it's popularity amongst church-goers. Pastors from all different churches regularly meet at this place for various reasons. I love it.

I think their togetherness is a small picture of a greater reality: these men, from different traditions within the Christian faith are all joining together because regardless of their differing opinions on some doctrine, they love each other and they recognize the importance of community within all of us that claim to be Jesus followers.

For those that we know whom are part of the larger body of Christ but perhaps are neglecting the community of believers that's right in front of them by isolating themselves, we should take it upon ourselves to bring them into the fold. At least invite them to be a part of our own respective communities. In the end, the decision is theirs whether or not they want to be involved—but at the very least an effort should be made to incorporate them into our communities.

I respect the position of some of our church leaders who express that whether or not their church is the one that's joined by the believers in question, that doesn't matter. What matters is that they connect with the community somewhere. I think that's excellent, the point is community. Not who's community, just the community. Period.

So next time you're sipping that blended mocha consider this: you were made to be a part of something big. And you were not made to walk your faith out alone.