Created for Community
I was glad when they said to me, ‘Let us go to the house of the Lord. Psalm 122:1
Most Sundays I am genuinely glad to go to church. This past Sunday, however, I wasn't feeling my best—and to be honest, slipping back into my pjs and watching church online sounded pretty good.
Have you ever felt this way before? I think perhaps many of us have.
Even so, staying home wasn’t an option for me. It was my week to serve as a greeter. So, I dutifully put on my shoes, slapped on some lipstick, and got in the car with my husband.
In my heart, I knew that going to church was the best, most blessed thing I could do. And the truth is—it was.
Connecting With People
You see, it was at my assigned door that I welcomed new families to our church, greeted regular attenders, and hugged, laughed with, and spoke to supportive friends. Then in the service I sang with fellow believers, joined in the response prayers, listened to an encouraging sermon, and took communion together with everyone else.
And finally, in between services, I met a friend in the café to catch up and pray together.
Here’s my point: the worship, sermon, and the opportunity to serve are vital parts of the church experience—but just as essential is connecting with people. It’s the smiles, the handshakes, the shared prayers, the conversations we share, the comfort we give the songs we sing, and the prayers we pray together.
These moments are more than church rhythms—they are beautiful expressions of community.
Why Community?
There are many valid reasons for community—but first and foremost, it’s because God’s plan for His people is each other. This is why He created a helpmate for Adam (Genesis 2:18), chose twelve disciples to become apostles (Luke 6:13), sent them out in pairs (Mark 6:7), and empowered His followers through the Spirit to work together in fulfilling His mission (Acts 1:8).
In addition, community reflects the very nature of the Godhead. It’s how we practice the “one anothers” of Scripture. It protects us from isolation and loneliness. It’s also a powerful witness to unbelievers. Yet most significantly, it’s a dress rehearsal for heaven, where all of God’s people will one day live together with Him forever.
A Model to Follow
Thankfully, Jesus modeled for us what true community looks like. He stayed in constant communion with His Father—His highest priority. He walked closely with His twelve disciples—His companions and mentees. And He shared an intimate bond with three specific friends, Peter, James, and John.
It’s important to note that while Jesus was often surrounded by crowds, the crowds were not His community—they were His ministry. It’s entirely possible to be among many people, as Jesus often was, yet still feel lonely or unseen. In His humanness, Jesus understood this. He wants us to understand it as well.
The fact is, God never intended for us to do life alone—apart from Him or each other. His plan for us has always been life together with Him and with one another.
Not just on Sundays, and not just in church—but every day, in every place. In our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and public spaces.
Why?
Because we were created for community.
So perhaps today, spend a few moments reflecting with gratitude on the community God has provided for you. And then commit—or recommit—to investing in that community, knowing it is one of God’s sweetest blessings to you.
Pray
Father God, I acknowledge that community is Your good plan for me. I am forever grateful for the friendship I share with You because of Jesus. I’m also truly thankful for the people You’ve chosen for me to walk with and to share life with. I pray my authentic relationships with others would reflect Your love and demonstrate Your goodness to those who don’t yet know You. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.n.
Reflect
Where in your life are you most experiencing the gift of community, and how might God be inviting you to deepen your connection with the community He’s provided for you?
My friends, your thoughts matter! I’d love to hear from you. Consider sharing your responses in the comment section below!