Submitted by Mentoring Matters

Community is a word that is used in various venues, both within Faith and non-faith-based organizations. As a family, having lived in different parts of the United States serving in ministry, we have been a part of various communities and felt the richness of this experience. At times the building of community was strained and stressful, other times it flowed naturally and felt effortless. Recently, we have been reflecting on community and its purpose and necessity in our lives, as designed by God himself.

He created us as relational beings, benefiting from a well-functioning community of believers. Our experience has been that there are several key elements to community, which, when working together, produce a beautiful gift from God.

As we serve here in Oklahoma among the Cherokee people, we have learned a lot about native community and the traditions that contribute to their way of life and functioning. As we seek to build relationships here in Oklahoma and share the gospel with those around us, we have found there are three key elements to community.

 

First, Christ is the Cornerstone to true community. We have been so blessed by walking alongside other believers and experiencing life together.  Sharing together, eating together, and talking about the challenges in our lives has strengthened our bond. We are grateful for what we have learned as we have listened to others share the stories of their lives, both the positive and the challenging aspects. Here in OK, we have the privilege of being a part of a Bible study as well as leading one. Opening God’s Word and learning together is building our sense of community and deepening relationships.

Secondly, as we reflect on community, another component of rich community is caring for one another. Over the years, we have been on both the receiving and giving end of this truth. Relationships are strengthened, and greater community is built as we serve others. I was personally touched in this area when I returned from Canada after the sudden passing of my father. The community here rallied around me and supported my family and me as we grieved this loss. We have also experienced the richness of community in serving alongside others. There really is something special about working on a project together or working toward a shared goal that builds community. We have been here in Oklahoma for just 8 years and have already learned so much about the Cherokee people. While they are fiercely private and reserved, they embody the spirit of caring as they come alongside one another. Together these last 8 years, we have worked together and have gotten to know so many and share Christ with them through caring acts. We really see that caring for others, as shown by the example of Christ and His disciples, is a key cornerstone to a vibrant community.

Lastly, in addition to Christ and caring acts, community is built by connecting with others. Having fun together, sharing meals, laughing, serving, and enjoying life are all part of building community. We have found that being intentional with others and our desire to get to know them has opened so many doors of opportunity to share Christ. In addition to this, we have been on the receiving end of others pursuing connection with us. Asking key questions, digging deeper into life, and doing life together. It is hard, and requires time and effort, but it is fun and rewarding!

We are blessed as a family to serve here in Oklahoma and to live here among the Cherokee people. As we seek to minister and share the gospel, we daily learn that being a part of a community and pursuing building a deeper community is part of God’s design and gift for us! It starts with Christ as the cornerstone and caring and connecting with others!

 

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