Charity Autry, Peloton lover

Scripture:

Galatians 6:2-2 Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.

Proverbs 17:17 17A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity. 

1 Corinthians 12:26-27 26If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices with it.   27 Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. 

Reflection:

I don’t know what I would do without my church community. Over ten years ago I took a leap of faith, literally, and walked into a mom’s bible study. At first it was scary and intimidating. However, I kept showing up week after week. This church community became some of my best friends. This group also grew into Sunday school class pulling our spouses in, forcing our husbands into new friendships. We hold each other as we mourn losses, help each other to forgive and laugh till we cry. God knows we would need friends to get through this crazy ride we call life. I am so thankful for this community.

This Scripture implies there is no way we can carry our burdens alone. Let me say that again, no one can walk through life alone. We weren’t made to do it alone. Hence, God provides community. Easy to say, harder to actually do. To make real friendships and build community, we must be vulnerable, let our guard down.  It’s easier to just say, “I’ll pray for you,” than it is to actually take the time to listen and hear what’s going on. 

Building community by walking into a new church, Sunday school class or bible study is hard. Like my Peloton (an exercise bike) instructors say, “clipping in is the hardest part, and you did it”. Peloton builds their brand on community. Instructors give grace, support, and encouragement to members. This keeps people coming back, because they know all they must do is show up and they have succeeded. Our church families can do the same, just show up, “clip in”. This community will show you grace, support and encouragement as well. Once you are comfortable, be a little vulnerable. 

Sharing your experiences, joys and troubles allows people to share their own experiences. As indicated in Proverbs 17:17, our brothers and sisters are born at a time of adversity. We grow together during times of struggle. When we carry each other’s burdens, we clip in. We suffer with our community, and we rejoice with it when there is a time of celebration. During these times we are formed and shaped into a brother or sisterhood, a community. Be a little vulnerable today, or just be present when needed, “clip in”. God wants this for us, thank goodness!

Prayer:  

Thank you God for bringing community into my life to struggle with me and celebrate with me. Thank you for not only my wonderful church community but all of the communities in my life. Thank you for reminding me, I am not alone in my celebrations or struggles. Amen.