We all long to be a part of something. Even the most introverted among us longs to be wanted and accepted, even if only from a distance. So those moments when we witness, or better yet, participate in true community are precious.
Today I was blessed to witness community at its best, not once, not twice, but several times over.
It started with attending a Teen Challenge graduation. For anyone unfamiliar with the organization, Teen Challenge helps people trapped in addictions find freedom, and Hubby has been volunteering as a teacher there for years. As a result of his service I’ve come to know and love many of the residents, volunteers and graduates of the program. And today I was embraced and blessed by so many of them as together we celebrated the success of five new graduates. If you ever get the opportunity to attend a Teen Challenge event, I encourage you to go and see the amazing life transformations yourself. They would not be possible without the love and support of a community of people coming together to love and serve others.
Then this evening we hosted our bi-weekly Life Group in our home. As we prepare for Judd and Kristie’s wedding this week it was awesome to see our group come together in support of them, offering encouragement and advice that they can carry with them into their marriage and future family.
I was also humbled by the support I received from the ladies in our group. I’ve been dealing with some health challenges over the past few weeks and each of the ladies asked me individually how I was doing and offered a listening ear. They’ve been joining with me in prayer and continue to support me in so many ways.
So today I am grateful for community. For so long I sat on the outskirts of any group, never truly belonging anywhere. But today I was overwhelmed with love and support from so many directions and I was reminded that we were created to live in community.
If you are struggling with feelings of loneliness or if you’re tired of trying to do it on your own, I encourage you to seek out community with those who will lift you up, support you and be a positive influence on your life. I know from years of experience that is far easier said than done, but make seeking community a priority. True community has the power to help you grow.
“How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” – Psalm 133:1
