Community Is . . . Being Like-Minded
Scripture Reading — Philippians 2:1-11
Make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and of one mind.
When Craig moved to Denver, he searched for a community to be a part of. The one he landed in was filled with people who had interests similar to his. They would go mountain biking, hiking, and camping together—all while forming connections and deep bonds with each other. Those connections didn’t stop at outdoor activities. They were also a group that shared a love for Jesus Christ, and they would talk about their faith often. They held each other accountable to spiritual and personal matters. Even years later, after they had stopped seeing each other regularly and many of them had moved on to different areas or different seasons of life, they still remain connected because of the things they had in common.
When Paul addresses the Philippians, he encourages them to be like-minded, to have the same love, and to be one. Having similarities, especially those founded on Christ, can bring us together in Christian community. It gives us bonds that are not easily broken and that can grow into other things. And, when differences arise, the like-minded love that we have established can keep us connected to each other.
If you are looking for a community to be a part of, begin with things that you like to do, and build from there. Find other believers who play basketball or knit or love to read. Begin with those bonds and allow the connections to spread to conversations about God, faith, and life.
Father, help us find people to connect with, and help us grow in understanding your love for us. Amen.
About the author — Bret Lamsma
Bret Lamsma is Director of Faith Formation at First Church in Denver, Colorado, and has served churches in Michigan and California in youth, emerging adult, inter-generational, and educational ministries. Bret and his wife, Julie, have two children, and he enjoys hiking, disc golfing, and cheering for the Chicago Cubs.
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