Friday Fight 170: An Open Invitation
Every Friday, when I wake and pray, God places something on my heart to help fight darkness beginning in our minds. Today is FF170.
Many of us hear the word community and mentally travel to different contexts. The word can refer to a classroom, those gathered for a mutual talent or interest, or a group of believers who walk through life together. The truth is that community is essential, and the common denominator is meeting people where they are through invitation. So, who are we inviting to be part of our community, and what does that look like for our spiritual lives?
An Open Invitation:
What does an open invitation mean in the context of a Christ-based community? It is more than extending a physical invitation but creating an environment of inclusivity and acceptance. It means welcoming everyone, regardless of their background or experiences. This sincere welcome is the first step in building a spiritually healthy gathering. Psalm 133:1 refers to God's interest in family unity, an essential custom at this time. We can apply this verse as the psalmist writes about the importance of families dwelling together for religious significance and safety measures. We can connect this Scripture to gathering now and see that God's abiding value in union remains vital.
A spiritually healthy Christ-based community gathers believers to learn, grow, listen, respond, and value one another's hearts and views. In walking together, we have access to each other's perspectives, allowing us to learn from each other. We invite God into our gatherings of exercise, walking, book clubs, nature hikes, or the pleasure of educating children. Whatever the case, it is never about one source of learning. Instead, God uses us to help each other grow.
Where do we begin? Go to God in prayer, followed by an open invitation. It is vital to extend an open invitation to everyone, regardless of their background, experiences, or spiritual journey. This inclusive approach ensures that no one is excluded, and we can all benefit from everyone's diverse perspectives and experiences. Together, we can cultivate our souls while facing Jesus to maintain healthy intentions that benefit us all.
Uniting people to experience God and enduring life's challenges together should include a "language" that naturally develops over time. This language development will consist of setting boundaries that prevent people from utilizing the time to unload their conflicting and rapidly alternating emotions, leaving little time for discussing a planned topic or remaining Christ-centered. It does not mean we have grumbling complaints without sympathizers, but cautiousness is necessary. Humbly sharing our hurts to receive prayer or repenting of sins without judgment is a different scenario than monopolizing the entire group discussion to complain about every aspect of our lives.
Validation is a crucial part of our community. It is not just about making others feel welcome but about accepting with grace and understanding. When we validate where they are in their relationship with Christ, we foster a sense of belonging and acceptance, making each person feel seen, heard, and appreciated. This powerful validation tool can make everyone in our community feel acknowledged and appreciated. Walking in unity with others begins with an open invitation, but it should end with recognizing God's love and concluding with words of prayer and praise.
Pastor Shannon
NewLife