A Vision For Community

"And when he returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he (Jesus) was at home. 2 And many were gathered together, so that there was no more room, not even at the door. And he was preaching the word to them. 3 And they came, bringing to him a paralytic carried by four men. 4 And when they could not get near him because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him, and when they had made an opening, they let down the bed on which the paralytic lay.5 And when Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”" - Mark 2:1-5

Praying that God would reveal His Word to me in a new light, he answered immediately while I was doing my devotions this morning. This is the story about the paralytic and his friends, and there were two main things I got out of this passage that I think can and should be applied towards community.

Our Desire for Christ. 
These four friends and their sick friend came seeking for Christ, and when they had gotten to the house, they saw the big crowd in their way. That didn't stop them. They continued to strategize, and think of different creative ways to get to Christ and it ended up in them lowering their friend through the roof. I think as a community, we all should have that desire for Christ as individuals and as a whole.

Our Draw Towards Christ.
These four friends were so sacrificial, taking time out of whatever they had to do to help their friend encounter God. In the same way, a community should always be spurring and pushing each other to draw closer to God; whether if it is through prayer, devotions or accountability. Together, we are the body of Christ, and we work together to further God's kingdom and build our relationship with Him. I pray that I can do my part and be able to help those around me draw closer to the Almighty God.

verse of the day: Hebrews 10:19-25

19 Therefore, brothers and sisters, since we have confidence to enter the Most Holy Place by the blood of Jesus, 20 by a new and living wayopened for us through the curtain, that is, his body, 21 and since we have a great priest over the house of God, 22 let us draw near to Godwith a sincere heart and with the full assurance that faith brings, having our hearts sprinkled to cleanse us from a guilty conscience and having our bodies washed with pure water. 23 Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. 24 And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, 25 not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.