The Bible teaches us about the absolute need for one another. Obviously we all have a need for the Lord, but do we place a high priority upon the 'interaction' with people. We live in a time where we have more ability to connect with others than ever before, i.e. email, websites, blogs, cell phones, text messaging... But are we really connecting and interacting with people. Building relationships that are truly built together for a habitation of the Lord? Don't be alarmed, I'm not saying we all are hiding behind our monitor screens, but I am concerned that people are taking the gifts of one another for granted.
Sociologists say research shows that Americans are participating less in social activities. They are reading less newspapers, attending less meetings, writing fewer letters, entertaining less in their home, attending fewer church services and giving less blood.
In Acts 2:42, the Bible speaks of the early church doing 4 things: 1) devoted to the apostles teaching 2) to fellowship with others 3) to breaking of bread 4) to prayer. All of these speak to me that the early church had something that too many are hungry for today - interaction and connection. The Cheers (sitcom) theme song had a line about the local bar: "...place where everybody knows your name..." There is a social trend towards isolationism and disengagement.
Sociologists say research shows that Americans are participating less in social activities. They are reading less newspapers, attending less meetings, writing fewer letters, entertaining less in their home, attending fewer church services and giving less blood. Why do I need the church? 1) there is protection through prayer 2) it is a source for encouragement, support and accountability 3) the church needs our spiritual gifts to operate effectively.
We must be careful not to adapt to the 'older son' syndrome, which says, he's not my brother, I'm focused only on my needs, and I only see faults in others. Philippians 2:3-4 says, "Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others". Let's all work on honestly caring about reach other to point that if need be: we'll walk the extra mile and give up our coat for others. Remember, "People don't care how much you know, until they know how much you care"
I Thank God For YOU!
MT
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