The power of community

As I was driving yesterday, I heard on the radio (and it was a secular station) that in recent studies, people come to church faithfully, not because of doctrine or duty, but because of community.

They come because they feel like they have found a place where they feel welcomed.  Treasured.  Special.  Where they feel like family.

I agree with the results of that study.  In our culture today, most folks I come across are just trying to do the best they can and want to be around people who are like minded.  They want to be around people who are accepting and loving and kind.

In his book "Soul Cravings", Erwin McManus talks about his friend Mick, who has struggled with alcoholism throughout his life. He's been a part of their church for a number of years, and Mick has gone through countless ups and downs, seasons of loss and seasons of victory.

There were many times when McManus thought they had lost Mick for good, but he keeps coming back.

McManus asked him what kept him in their community over the years, in spite of all the great highs and tremendous lows.

Mick said, "Oh, that's easy. There was always a place for me here. No one ever asked me to leave. No matter what I did, no one ever asked me to leave."

McManus then writes:

"There may be no greater proof of God than the power of community.

We are not healthy when we are alone.

We find ourselves as we connect to others.

Without community we don't know who we are."

May we, at Stone Church, continue to be the community he has called us to be.