I hope you had a blessed week. As we gather each week, we’re reminded of the beauty and strength found in authentic community. The journey of faith is not meant to be walked alone; rather, Scripture encourages us to be in fellowship and do life together. Throughout the Bible, we find countless examples of this truth, underscoring the importance of mutual support, encouragement, and shared experiences in our spiritual journey.
In Acts 2:42-47, we see a vivid picture of the early church—a group of believers so committed to one another that their lives were intertwined in beautiful and transformative ways. They devoted themselves to teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer, sharing everything they had. This powerful model illustrates that authentic community fosters an environment where we can grow in love and deepened faith. From this foundation, they saw miracles and signs, and the Lord added to their numbers daily. This transformation was rooted in their commitment to doing life together.
Furthermore, consider the life of Jesus and His disciples. He gathered a diverse group of individuals—fishermen, a tax collector, zealots—and transformed them into a community of faith that would change the world. Their shared experiences, trials, and triumphs bonded them deeply. In John 15:12-15, Jesus said, “This is my command: Love each other as I have loved you.” This love was visible in their communal living, their support through trials, and their celebrations. It reminds us that, like the early church and Jesus’ disciples, we are called to support each other through our highs and lows, fostering an environment of grace, understanding, and accountability.
As we reflect on these biblical examples, let’s consider how we can practice this in our own lives today. Authentic community happens when we take intentional steps to engage with one another, sharing not only our faith but also our journeys—the struggles and joys, the mundane moments, and significant milestones. As we create a culture of openness and vulnerability, we allow others to see the love of Christ reflected in us. With this in mind, we have some exciting opportunities coming up that will allow us to experience this community in action!
Storm Co. Mission Trip:
We’re excited to announce that we are organizing a Storm Co. mission trip for our teenagers! This is a wonderful opportunity for them to engage in meaningful service and deepen their faith while forming lasting friendships. Parents, if you’d like to volunteer as a helper, your involvement would be greatly appreciated! Please let us know if you're interested, as this trip could be a transformative experience for our young people.
Christmas Markets Planning Committee:
The festive season may be months away but it’s time to prepare for our annual Christmas Markets! This event is a fantastic way for our church community to come together and celebrate. If you have skills in planning or organization, we invite you to join the planning committee. Your help will not only enhance the event but will also foster deeper connections within our church family and the wider community.
I encourage each of you to step out, join in, and experience the joy of community, knowing that through every act of service, every shared meal, and every moment of fellowship, we are living out the calling of our faith.
Blessings upon you all, David Peñate
