Community Is . . . the Little Things
Scripture Reading — 1 Kings 19:9-13
When Elijah heard it, he pulled his cloak over his face and went out and stood at the mouth of the cave.
Eli has enjoyed some big moments in his life. He is part of a close-knit family, a good church and youth group, and a meaningful group of friends. His family homesteads on the Colorado plains, and he recently visited Africa on a mission trip. But when he thinks of community, Eli thinks of the little things that his closest friends do together. He thinks of watching movies, working on cars, and talking about football. In those little moments of life Eli finds comfort, safety, and a feeling of connectedness that are very important to him.
God is present in big things, and God is also present in the small, mundane, and quiet things of life. God does huge miracles, saves countless people, and heals debilitating diseases. God also watches over us in our weakest times and knows the minute details of our lives. God is present in the whispers of our lives when it seems as if no one is there and nothing matters.
Community is similar. It isn’t just present in the big and life-changing moments. It isn’t just present in huge groups. It is present in the quiet, little things of life too. Sometimes we aren’t even looking for it, and it just shows up. It is present in quiet conversations over coffee, in small game nights, in family meals, or in a garage as friends work on a car.
What small moments do you find community in? Maybe when you look for community in those situations, you’ll see it all around you.
Lord, help us to notice the small moments of community we can have with others and with you. Amen.
About the author — Bret Lamsma
Bret Lamsma is director of faith formation at a church in Denver, Colorado, and has served churches in Michigan and California in youth, inter-generational, and educational ministries. Bret and his wife, Julie, have two children, and he enjoys hiking, camping, and visiting national parks with his family.
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