We Need Each Other

Two towns. Two churches. I lived in the first town and was a member of a church there for seven years. I taught Bible study, sang in the choir, was a mentor for the MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) program, and helped with seasonal events. I had two surgeries and moved twice. I received one text message from our pastor during that time. No visits or calls from any church members or staff. After one major spinal surgery, I did get an email from the choir director asking when I was going to be back because they needed me. Never did he ask how I was doing. We moved from there, and I only had three people to say good-bye to after seven years. Church, we need each other.

We moved to a new state, a new town, a new church. Three months after we moved, we moved my in-laws in to our lower floor. Over fifteen men, women, and teenagers showed up to help them move in. My husband and I only knew four of these. They had such a spirit of helpfulness and servanthood. They unloaded a truck, helped put shelf liner in and get the kitchen unpacked. They prayed for us. They touched our dry and hungry hearts. They were the church. We need each other.

Hebrews 10:24-25 says, “And let us consider how to stimulate one another to love and good deeds, not forsaking our own assembling together as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another; and all the more as you see the day drawing near.” In other words, be the church. The church is to serve one another, love one another, pray for one another, be in community with one another. It makes all the difference in the world, literally. The world will not be impacted by a church that cannot see to its own needs. The world will not come to know the Father if the children are not loving one another. We need each other.

Are you reaching out within your community of faith in service and in friendship? Are you visiting the poor? The sick? The hurting? Are you being the church?  Make an impact today with a phone call, a letter, an email, or a visit. We need each other.