Don’t Give Up

  

The WORD today (See http://usccb.org/bible/readings/013113.cfm) reminds me how important having and staying in a community is

The First reading reminds us…

We must consider how to rouse one another to love and good works.
We should not stay away from our assembly,
as is the custom of some, but encourage one another,
and this all the more as you see the day drawing near

They say being in a community is like being part of a bonfire. It’s easy to keep burning while you are with others. You have other people who support you. But once you go out of the group, does the fire die? Probably not, it will still burn. But eventually, it will die down. Same with community. It’s easier to serve, it’s easy to do and be good if you’re with people who tries to do the same. Easier to pray if there are people praying as well. But if we go out, for whatever reason, the fire in us might not immediately die down, but eventually, if there is no one to nourish and support that fire, it will die down.

Jesus knows how important it is to be part of a community. He established communities. He sent out disciples to evangelize by pairs. He chose 12 apostles. Even the great apostle Paul had companions in his journey. No man is an island, and we all need each other to keep our fire burning. As Christ said, “whenever two or three are gathered in my name, I am with them”

No community is perfect. Even if we are all serving God, we have differences in opinions, upbringing and attitudes. However, these differences should not weigh us down. These should not tire us out. We should continue to be committed and not give up on our community life, not give up on others. We should continue to remember that we are all serving God, and focus on Him as we serve him.

Am I part of a community? If no, am I willing and ready to be a part of one? Do I realize the importance of community? What challenges do I experience being a part of a community? How do I overcome these challenges?

Father God,

Thank you for today. Thank you for reminding me how important community is. Thank you also for giving me a community of faith. Lord, I know that no community is perfect, there are differences among members, and challenges that we will and are facing. Lord, give us faith to persevere and not give up on community. May we always remember that we are all gathered in your name, to love and serve you. As we serve you, help us focus on you and not let distractions get the best of us. May we be faithful servants building your church, your community here on earth. Amen.

Blessed day!

In Christ,

-g-