Saturday, March 16, 2019
“A cord of three strands is not quickly broken.” Ecclesiastes 4:12b
The English language word ‘community’ comes from the Latin communitas, and communis , “shared in common”. There are national and international affiliations, virtual community such as communication platforms and micro social communities that include neighbourhoods, service or hobby clubs, families, work places, schools, and, yes, church. We tend to join communities which share our values and passions. If we are honest, we usually want to connect with a group which meet our needs or perhaps even challenges us to make a difference in the world. In church land we sometimes call this ‘fellowship’, although sometimes we forget that includes so much more than getting together for coffee and treats.
Our Baptismal Covenant asks the question: Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers? Our response is I will, with God’s help. Simply put, that means we commit to attending church, to joining in worship, every week, if at all possible. For it is when we gather, as the Body of Christ, with all of the beautiful, caring, gentle, needy, challenging and grumpy parts, that the bond of God’s love is strengthened, where the children of God encourage one another and the servants of God are equipped for ministry. It is not just the passing scenery or personal experiences which enrich our journey, but the people on the Way.
For Further Reflection: Acts 2:42-47 “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship…”
Aside: Have you ever bought a daikon radish? Looking a bit like an elongated white turnip, sweet and fresh tasting, thinly sliced daikon is a wonderful addition to any salad(and keeps well in the refrigerator). Or, julienne a chunk of it, as well as a couple of carrots, add some rice vinegar (or white or cider vinegar) and a couple of teaspoons of white sugar. Chill it. Options: Add some chili flakes and chopped parsley or cilantro. Serve as a side with any entrée.