Failures in Community - Commitment
Failures in Christian Community - Commitment
Hebrews 10:24-25
24 And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, 25 not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near.
While we have discussed this week the challenges of Christian community due to our own sinfulness, today I want us to look at a practical reason we are failing in Christian community: consistency. Simply put, we don’t show up. Relationships require time. Relationships require presence. Relationships require investment. YOU HAVE TO SHOW UP!
I asked on Sunday: Are you willing to do what is required to receive what you desire? We want to be known, loved, cared for, helped, encouraged, and even corrected. If you are not present, none of this can happen. Neglecting to meet together is a problem that must be addressed. Are your schedules busy? Sure. Do things come up? Absolutely. Are there times when you “just don’t feel like it”? I have felt that way too.
The real issue is a matter of priority. Are you prioritizing being connected to the community? Are you committing to being present even when time is short, schedules are busy, and feelings aren’t there?
“Sunday church is a Saturday choice.”
A late night on Saturday is a recipe for a sleepy morning on Sunday. Are you prioritizing being connected and committed to community? I will say this as clearly as I can: Our schedule starting on September 15th is designed to give you access to Christian community in a way that honors your time, location, and busyness.
As we kick off Groups again in March, we are asking everyone to be in attendance. We are asking everyone to commit to connecting. You play a role in others’ lives, even if you don’t believe you need them in yours. I am urging and pleading with you to be committed to your group.
Excuses are tempting, but do not neglect what matters. At the end of the day, we are asking you to give 40 more minutes on a Sunday to what we believe will be valuable to you, your group mates, and our church. Be prepared for me to invite you personally. Be prepared for me to ask you directly. However, at the end of the day, I can only offer you healthy spiritual options; you must choose them.
